Manchester United looks to have an absolute gem of a right-winger coming through the academy – Bendito Mantato.
Mantato scored a whopping four goals for Manchester United’s under-18 side on Saturday. He scored in the 41st minute, 46th minute, 66th minute and finally in the 79th minute to cap off a truly special player-of-the-game performance.
The academy winger has drawn Bukayo Saka comparisons, and if he ever gets to this level – Manchester United‘s right-wing slot is in safe hands. It may even be best to cash in on Antony whilst Erik ten Hag can still recuperate even a small fee of the £85m paid for the Brazilian.
So – who is Bendito Mantato? Here’s everything you need to know about him.
Who is Bendito Mantato?
Mantato is a professional football player currently featuring for Manchester United’s academy sides. He is currently in the under-18s setup.
He features alongside a plethora of talent in this budding Red Devils squad, with the likes of Harry Amass, Ethan Williams, Ethan Wheatley, Louie Jackson, Habeeb Ogunneye and more accompanying him.
Where and when was Bendito Mantato born?
Matato at the time of writing is currently 16 years old, having been born on January 25th 2008.
He has chosen to feature for England and is currently playing at youth level, although has Angolan heritage and citizenship.
What position does he play?
Mantato is predominantly a right-winger but has played elsewhere in the past. He’s also featured as a defender, both left and right back – as well as left-wing.
As he’s progressed, his attacking has become drastically better – which means a position further up the pitch is now definitely favoured.
How good is Bendito Mantato?
Mantato has drawn Saka comparisons for a reason. The winger has a remarkable left foot. He has the fantastic ability to cut in on his stronger side off the right and pop a shot off quickly, which often proves devastating.
To add to his fantastic shooting capabilities, Mantato also possesses great pace and has fantastic awareness – which give him three fantastic qualities in the making of any good winger.
He’s only going to get better. Take a look at some of his best bits below.