Man Utd Reveals Strategic Blueprint for Teenage Sensation Diego Leon
Manchester United's teenage prospect Diego León may soon become the first Paraguayan player to represent the club in its 147-year existence, depending on how pre-season unfolds for him.
León was just 17 years old when his planned move to Old Trafford was announced in January. After celebrating his 18th birthday in April, he finally completed his European transfer in July.
Operating as a left-back or left wing-back, the young talent could prove valuable to United given Ruben Amorim's preferred 3-4-2-1 system. With Patrick Dorgu potentially being the primary option in that position and Luke Shaw's injury concerns persisting—or his increasing deployment as a left-sided centre-back—León might realistically emerge as the primary backup for the left flank.
The competition for this squad position will be between the South American newcomer and fellow 18-year-old Harry Amass, whose long-awaited breakthrough resulted in four Premier League appearances late last season. It's possible that Amass could be sent on loan if León establishes himself ahead. Otherwise, León might begin with United's Under-21 setup while adapting to his new environment.
The Athletic reports that León has been training exclusively with the senior squad under Amorim and his coaching team since pre-season commenced earlier this month. He will accompany the team to Sweden for the upcoming friendly against Leeds United and is anticipated to join the US tour as well. These opportunities and the experience gained will likely determine his standing when the 2025–26 campaign officially kicks off in mid-next month.
The Athletic also mentions that Amass is currently "considered to be in front" of León, though this dynamic could shift based on developments over the coming weeks.
A loan move is not currently part of León's developmental pathway. Moving him elsewhere before he has the opportunity to settle at Manchester United would be counterproductive. His immediate future lies with either the Under-21s or the first-team, at least for this campaign.