Sekou Kone: Midfield sensation’s behind-the-scenes work that could steer him closer to a United debut | OneFootball

Manchester United’s midfield is a position that needs bolstering next year.

While Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have steadied the ship by leaning on their experience, the area still requires attention.

Ruben Amorim is expected to inject athleticism into his engine room to give it the mobility it sorely lacks.

United scouts are actively searching for midfielders who fit that profile. But if those already at the club can change Amorim’s mind, they might save United millions in transfer fees.

One midfielder many had hoped would force his way into Amorim’s plans is academy talent Sekou Kone.

Kone’s disrupted rise

Kone, widely regarded as a technically gifted and intelligent central midfielder, effective both defensively and offensively, was tipped for a breakthrough 2025–26 season.

However, an early-season injury disrupted his progress. A fractured eye socket sustained in the National League Cup clash against Tamworth sidelined him for 84 days, a spell that did little to convince Amorim he was ready for a senior role.

Now back in action, having returned during United U21’s 2–0 win over Notts County, the 19-year-old will be hoping to make up for lost time and continue pushing for a first-team promotion.

Extra sessions behind the scenes

While doing so, the Daily Mail has revealed the extra effort Kone is putting in to edge closer to his long-awaited United debut.

The UK outlet reports:

“Sekou Kone has been hard at work building himself up to full fitness after making his return to the pitch against Notts County recently.

“That work has now included teaming up with first-team wing-back Patrick Dorgu, with the pair taking sessions together with the same private coach.

“The young midfielder, who trained on a couple of occasions with the first team last week, is using the coaching of Kwaku Ohemeng.

“The coach, who also counts Liverpool’s Jeremie Frimpong among his clients, put the United pair through their paces in recent days. It is useful, too, for Kone to have the support of a first-team player as he slowly builds towards integrating himself in that group.”

Breakthrough chances boosted

It is encouraging to see Patrick Dorgu take Kone under his wing, a significant boost for the Malian youngster.

It was unfortunate timing for his injury; had it not occurred, he would likely be much further along in his development.

Nevertheless, his current efforts should catch the eye of United’s technical staff. If he can rediscover his rhythm and showcase his quality on the training pitch, his chance will surely come.

Should he prove his worth, Kone could save United millions of funds that might otherwise be spent on midfield targets like Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, or Elliot Anderson.

Sekou Kone signing for Man United, posted on Instagram

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