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Manchester United’s U21 side took on Real Madrid on Tuesday night at Old Trafford, and once again, the performance of Godwill Kukonki was noteworthy.
It was the Premier League International Cup quarter-final that brought Real Madrid Castilla to Old Trafford on Tuesday night.
Manchester United ended up losing to Madrid 4-2, although the performance in the first half was particularly impressive, which saw Adam Lawrence’s side leading 2-0 at one stage.
There were a handful of standout performers for United, with Shea Lacey and Jack Moorhouse impressing. But so did Godwill Kukonki.
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Despite a 4-2 loss, there were plenty of performances worth being excited about.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images 
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesGodwill Kukonki’s blend of physicality and technical prowess makes him so dangerous
This season has seen Kukonki go from strength to strength for United in the academy, shining as a left-back for most of the season.
It was at left-back that he started against Madrid, and it was another storming performance worth getting excited about.
Kukonki was dominant physically against the Spaniards, doing so well when carrying the ball down the left side, holding off defenders, and riding challenges with ease.
The 6ft 5in defender was going past two or three defenders with these runs, with Madrid’s defenders hopeless in their efforts to stop him.
This quality to run through defenders, progress play and the athleticism to get up and down the pitch are qualities that are already superior to Luke Shaw.
What makes Kukonki even scarier for United is his shocking technical ability for a player of his size, making him a nightmare for opponents.
Kukonki’s ball carrying, composure, and ball playing are all top-class, and for him to demonstrate these traits against such high-level opposition proves that this should be his final year in the academy.
Despite being considered a long-term centre-back, right now Kukonki is making himself undeniable at left-back, considering he is such a rare profile on the left.
United only put Kukonki at left-back to aid his on ball development, but they have accidentally unearthed a truly special player in this position.
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Manchester United have two options with Kukonki this summer
One thing that is certain as this season nears its conclusion, Kukonki is ready for senior football, and next season, one way or another, he should be playing it.
This could come for United, with left-back depth needed, Kukonki could get the chance to impress during pre-season.
But if Michael Carrick or another manager doesn’t see him playing for United next season in the cups as a rotation player, then Kukonki needs a very well-picked loan.
Kukonki could play League One or maybe even Championship football next season comfortably as he has the physical traits needed to make that step.
It would benefit his development immeasurably and likely see him return ready to properly contribute.
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