Ruben Amorim calls up shock name to Man Utd squad for Arsenal clash after Luke Shaw injury setback

Ruben Amorim is set to call a 16-year-old up to United’s squad for tonight’s Premier League fixture against Arsenal

Amorim, 39, will include a young player in the squad for tonight’s match at the Emirates after Luke Shaw was ruled out on Tuesday. Shaw, 29, confirmed his absence through an emotional Instagram statement. With Shaw unavailable and Lisandro Martinez suspended, United faces a shortage of options on the left side of the defense.

In his first two Premier League games as manager, Amorim used Diogo Dalot as a left wing-back despite the player’s usual position being on the right. However, the MEN has confirmed that 16-year-old Godwill Kukonki will be part of the squad for tonight’s game.

Kukonki, who has impressed Amorim enough to be promoted to first-team sessions, also traveled with the team for their 1-1 draw against Ipswich on November 24 but did not feature in the matchday squad or warm-up. This evening, he is expected to play a role in some capacity.

Standing at six feet five inches, the Stoke-on-Trent-born defender is known for his versatility, being able to play as a left-back or center-back due to his left-footedness. His technical skills and physical attributes have drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, making him a promising option for United.

Amorim has emphasized the importance of developing young players, saying last week, “You need young guys, guys from the academy, to bring that history to the club. They feel the club in a different way.” He also highlighted how academy players help balance financial fair play requirements while contributing to the team’s development.

Kukonki, who has scored once and registered one assist in nine appearances for United’s Under-18s this season, has yet to make his Premier League 2 debut but could make a significant step forward tonight.