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Sekou Kone showing his class off the field during summer break

Originally posted on HITC | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 3:02 PM ET

Manchester United’s tour of Asia didn’t offer much to shout about, but a few young players grabbing their moment in the spotlight was a definite bright spot.

Ruben Amorim still took a strong group with him for those post-season matches against ASEAN All-Stars and Hong Kong, yet academy prospects still found their way into the team sheets.

Chido Obi made headlines with a brace, stepping into the number nine role and thriving in a way that Rasmus Hojlund hadn’t earlier in the contest.

Then there was Shea Lacey, who lit up the right flank and looked every bit ready to make the leap into senior football next season.

But perhaps the most surprising rise came in midfield, where Kone didn’t just hold his own – he stood out. So much so that Amorim publicly promised him more opportunities in the future.

While his performances on the pitch got fans talking, it’s what Kone did during his summer break that speaks volumes about the kind of person he is.

Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

Since joining United, the club have had zero complaints about Kone’s attitude or work ethic. And while technical growth has been clear, the summer offered more insight into his character away from football.

Kone spent part of his break back home in Mali, visiting family and friends, and Rising Ballers had a post up on Instagram praising him for what he did while there.

Kone handed out Manchester United shirts, each one stamped with his name and number. A simple gesture, but meaningful – especially in a community that helped raise him.

Kone seems intent on staying grounded as his career takes off. Composure and humility aren’t always easy to find in young modern pros, but the 19-year-old seems to have both.

Sekou Kone is ready for the next step at Manchester United

Kone’s rise has been rapid. He was already pushing the under-21 level by spring, and his time training with the first team only strengthened the case for a bigger role in 2025-26.

Amorim hasn’t just noticed him – he already rates him highly. Some at United expect him to leapfrog more senior backups in the pecking order if the club don’t sign more depth in that area.

Amorim admires Kone’s attitude and adaptability, which could make him a key squad player sooner rather than later. But whether he stays or goes on loan, Kone’s combination of on-field ability and off-field maturity has already marked him out as one to watch.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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