WAFU Opinion: Where will Franco Mastantuono fit in at Manchester United?

Now let’s get into a brief about how he will fit into the tactical side of things at M16. Firstly, if we are to understand the basics of how Ruben Amorim operates, he likes to have his squad operate in a framework of high pressing and having moving movements in the offensive line, which should have a strong midfield base. Connecting how the Argentine U20 international would fit into those areas, the left-footed maestro knows how to keep hold of the ball and when to distribute it effectively as per the sequence of play. He has the ability to play short balls in a quick move as well as longer and penetrating balls – we have seen how the current side has relied on both sides of play to transition from defence into offence, and this is where Franco could be a good fit.

While Mastantuono is an attacking midfielder, he has been capable of contributing to the defensive side of things as well. He grinds out in the middle of the park and has the ability to intercept passes owing to his excellent reading of the game. This should work well in how the Portuguese head coach likes his midfield to work.

Moreover, the teenager has a versatile profile in the middle of the park. He can play in central midfield or attacking midfield as well as in a deep-lying playmaker role, and this could help Amorim bring much flexibility to his set of plays in games.

We have seen how United have struggled to unlock defences this season and have overly relied on (what could be sometimes forced balls) Bruno Fernandes, but bringing in the 2007-born starlet would help by having someone who likes to put through line-breaking passes and create chances.

How is he different from Bruno?

United have two creative midfielders at M16 at the moment, Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen, but Mastantuono brings in a different playing style given that he has that ability to control the tempo (something that Bruno has been criticised a lot for) and dictate play from deeper positions. The 17-year-old could be more of a complement to Fernandes in an advanced role, bringing a sense of balance in the middle of the park.

We will see how this goes, but United could be signing an absolute talent if they end up signing Franco Mastantuono.