“Too good” – Man Utd urged to promote 6’5″ powerhouse who bullied Man City | OneFootball

Manchester United have a real gem in Godwill Kukonki, and some observers believe he’s ready for a step up in competition.

The Stoke-on-Trent native joined the club’s youth ranks, and has now emerged as one of the most exciting teenagers at Carrington.

Last term, Ruben Amorim said that Kukonki was ready for first-team football. The former United boss named the defender in his squad on a few occasions towards the end of the season.

But while the likes of Chido Obi, Harry Amass, and Tyler Fredricson went on to make their senior debut under the Portuguese manager, Kukonki was left to bide his time.

His solitary appearance on the bench this season was in January against Leeds United, which turned out to be Amorim’s last game in charge.

Man Utd teenager Godwill Kukonki has outgrown the U18 level

Although he took the field for Man Utd U21 on a few occasions this season, Kukonki remains a regular feature with Darren Fletcher’s U18.

His latest outing was on Saturday in a top-of-the-table clash against Man City U18. The young Red Devils went on to beat their crosstown rivals by three goals to one, with JJ Gabriel and Jim Thwaites producing wonderful displays.

Nevertheless, Kukonki was equally impressive while playing as a full-back. Standing at 196cm, the powerful Man Utd starlet had a massive size advantage over his fellow teenagers, and he proved to be a dominant force down the left flank.

Kukonki was able to win back possession almost at will and ease his way past his opponents. He also provided the assist for Chido Obi’s goal.

As UnitedAnalyst put it, the big defender is simply ‘too good for this level’.

Does Kukonki have a place in Michael Carrick’s senior squad?

Due to his behemoth stature and incredible physical strength, Kukonki is considered a natural centre half. Nevertheless, his performance on Saturday shows he’s equally capable of filling in the left-back role.

Godwill Kukonki’s stats this season (via Transfermarkt)

At this stage, Man Utd have an abundance of options at the heart of the backline, as even the likes of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are struggling to break into the starting lineup.

Nevertheless, the club could do with a young left-back, especially with Luke Shaw entering his 30s, and Tyrell Malacia considered an afterthought at United.

(Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)

Patrick Dorgu was originally identified as a long-term solution for this role, but the currently injured Dane has been much more effective when playing higher on the pitch, at least based on his most recent outings.

While Kukonki’s jump to the senior squad is unlikely to happen overnight, perhaps he should start featuring more often for Man Utd U21, which is considered the natural last step in the development system before entering the professional field.