Manchester United’s youngsters are impressing at the 2024 Super Cup NI but it’s Bendito Mantato who has stolen the headlines thus far.
After the impressive 2023/24 season that the academy had for Manchester United, things have continued excellently this summer in Northern Ireland.
The Red Devils have sent a U16 side to Northern Ireland in order to partake in the 2024 Super Cup NI and already it’s seen United’s youngsters impress.
A 4-0 triumph over Fermanagh in the opening game sees the Reds lead their group, thanks to a brace from Bendito Mantato along with a goal each from both Douka Nkoto and Edward Fletcher.
After the game though, it’s Mantato who has got fans talking. Here’s what has been said about his performance.
What Manchester United fans have been saying about Bendito Mantato
In the impressive victory, Mantato was the shining light and fans on social media made it clear that they were impressed by the 16-year-old.
“BENDITO MANTATO, REMEMBER THE NAME”, declared one fan on X.
Following this, a second fan wrote: “Bendito Mantato is truly a diamond talent, the kind you love instantly as soon as you watch him, special things ahead for him in this Super Cup NI”.
“Bendito Mantato is on fire”, a third simply acknowledged after seeing one of Mantato’s goals.
One fan was even at the game and reviewed Mantato’s outing by stating: “Was there at the game, he was unbelievable.”
A final fan wrote: “Bendito could be the one, his development over the last 12 months has been ridiculous.”
Expect Mantato to be a U18 star this season
Mantato had the start to the tournament he’d have been dreaming of and despite being just 16, we fully expect him to become a regular in the U18s this season after signing his scholarship contract recently.
Last season saw the winger breakthrough into the U18s and even into the U21 side, but he was far from regular and it only came toward the latter end of the season.
But this upcoming season he could be drafted by Adam Lawrence and become one of the U18s biggest players, something which would be far from surprising.
It was previously reported that Mantato could be getting fast-tracked, and if that’s the case he’ll definitely quickly become a star for the U18s.
Mantato’s next chance to impress will come on Tuesday night as United take on Skouted FC in group game number two.