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Manchester United have finalized a long-term deal for teenage sensation Bendito Mantato. The 17-year-old winger will stay with the club until June 2029.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Highly-rated academy star Bendito Mantato has signed his first professional contract with Manchester United, keeping him at Old Trafford until June 2029. The 17-year-old winger of Angolan origin has been progressing through the club’s youth system and has now been rewarded with a four-year professional deal. The talented youngster recently caught the attention of first-team manager Ruben Amorim, who included Mantato in the squad that traveled to Spain for the Europa League semi-final first leg against Athletic Bilbao.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Mantato has been exceptional for United’s youth teams this season, scoring seven goals in 11 appearances for the Under-18s in the Premier League. His performances earned him promotion to the Under-21 side, where he continued to impress with two goals and three assists in four Premier League 2 appearances. Technical director Jason Wilcox played a key role in securing this deal, recognizing Mantato’s potential as an important part of United’s future.
Manchester United currently sit fourth in the Premier League, with Amorim’s side still battling to secure Champions League football for next season. The Red Devils are also competing in the Europa League semi-finals against Athletic Bilbao, where they hold a 1-0 advantage from the first leg thanks to Endrick’s goal. With just three league games remaining, United are three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham and five points behind third-placed Arsenal.
MANTATO’S PLAYING STYLE
The English teenager’s playing style has drawn comparisons to Arsenal and England star Bukayo Saka. Like Saka, Mantato initially played as an attacking left-back before being deployed in a more advanced role. While he primarily operates as a right winger, he can also play on the opposite flank and occasionally as a fullback, demonstrating his versatility. His impressive dribbling ability and eye for goal have made him stand out in United’s academy system.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR MANTATO?
With Manchester United facing injury problems in attacking positions, including Joshua Zirkzee’s recent setback, Mantato could be in line for his senior debut before the end of the season. The Red Devils face Brighton at home this weekend in the Premier League before the crucial second leg against Athletic Bilbao in the Europa League semi-final next Thursday. Amorim has shown faith in academy graduates this season, with Ayden Heaven, Chido Obi Martin, and Harry Amass all getting significant first-team minutes in recent weeks.
Mantato joins a growing list of young talent being secured on long-term contracts at Old Trafford as the club continues to rebuild under Amorim’s guidance. United fans will be hoping to catch a glimpse of their latest academy gem in action as the season reaches its climax.
