It’s been almost two years since Willy Kambwala left Manchester United, but the DR Congo centre-back has reflected on which player surprised him most during that period.
Willy Kambwala made 10 appearances after graduating from Manchester United’s academy.
The defender made his senior debut for United in December 2023, starting in a Premier League match against West Ham.
Kambwala had to wait until the following April to make his second senior start, in a 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Old Trafford.
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Despite getting opportunities under Erik ten Hag, Kambwala was sold to Villarreal in 2024.
Ineos cashed in on Kambwala to strengthen the club’s profit and sustainability rating, with the same excuse used that summer when Scott McTominay left to join Napoli before winning the Serie A title in his first season away from United.
Kambwala has been unlucky with injuries at Villarreal since leaving United. His last appearance came in July 2025, in a pre-season friendly against Genoa.
Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty ImagesWilly Kambwala surprised by Amad Diallo after ‘tough’ start
Kambwala has been reflecting on his time at United during his recovery from injury.
The 21-year-old initially emerged from United’s academy with plenty of promise, but injuries have hindered his development in Spain.
It’s a shame because Kambwala showed glimpses in a United shirt that he is a good defender. He would be an addition to many teams, including Villarreal, if only he could stay fit.
Speaking to El After de Post United podcast, Kambwala revealed how Amad Diallo’s rise to prominence made him the most surprising player he encountered at United.
When asked which player surprised him the most at United for having the most quality, Kambwala said: “Amad Diallo.
“Yeah. He also had a difficult time when he signed for United, you know? His first two seasons were very tough, and he signed for €40 million.
“Everyone thought, ‘Whoa, €40 million?’ And of course, I didn’t know him before this. I was thinking, ‘€40 million, he didn’t play much, what’s going on?’
“And then in training, my friend, you see, ‘Ah, okay, now I understand the €40 million.’ Incredible.”
What did Erik ten Hag say after Willy Kambwala impressed against Liverpool?
Kambwala had most United fans excited after his performance in the 2-2 draw against Liverpool.
It was his second start for the club and despite being thrown in at the deep end, Ten Hag had complete trust in the youngster after watching him closely in training.
“The decision to bring Willy in is because he has been a long time training with us and, in his first game against West Ham United, he also did very well, his progress is amazing,” Ten Hag said, as per ManUtd.com.
“During training, we didn’t have any doubts and, for instance, we could have also brought Casemiro down and then bring another midfielder in.
“We were convinced he could do the job and he has done brilliant.”
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