Man United wonderkid compared to Bukayo Saka set to miss rest of season through injury

Manchester United youngster Bendito Mantato is set to miss the rest of the season due to an ankle injury, according to Manchester Evening News.

Mantato picked up the injury in the U21s’ Premier League 2 loss to Chelsea, where he replaced Jack Moorhouse just after the hour mark.

The report added that the England youth international is now wearing a protective boot, highlighting the severity of the issue.

Mantato’s fitness setback is a big blow to both United U18s and U21s, who are seeking to finish the season strongly.

Adam Lawrence’s side are seeking to win the Premier League 2 for the first time since the 2015/16 season. They trail leaders Chelsea by three points, although they have a game in hand.

The young Reds also remain in the Premier League International Cup, where they will face Real Madrid in the quarter-final at Old Trafford on April 7.

Meanwhile, Darren Fletcher’s side are aiming to win the U18 Premier League, Premier League Cup and the FA Youth Cup.

Mantato has made 26 appearances across all competitions for both sides, registering five goal involvements.

The 18-year-old, who has previously been compared with Arsenal star Bukayo Saka, was included in the matchday squads for both legs of last season’s Europa League semi-final with Athletic Bilbao.

Mantato was then included in the squad for last summer’s US pre-season tour. He eventually made his first-team debut against Wolves in December, replacing Manuel Ugarte.

The promising right-winger will be hoping to recover in time for next summer’s pre-season where he would have the chance to impress United’s new permanent manager.

Article written by Henry Thornton .