Jose Mourinho admitted before the trip to Arsenal that he will rest a few players in order to concentrate on their Europa League campaign – their biggest chance at qualifying for the Champions League next season.
However, none could have expected the Special One to hand a 19-year-old defender his full Premier League debut for the first-team in such a crucial tie. That is exactly what the Portuguese tactician did, naming Axel Tuanzebe in his lineup for Sunday’s game.
With Luke Shaw and Marcos Rojo out of action, Mourinho’s hands were forced. However, this won’t be Tuanzebe’s first appearance under Jose, appearing in the fourth-round FA Cup win over Wigan.
The 19-year-old, described as a natural leader who is comfortable in possession, is a central defender but has played around the pitch. There were appearances as a defensive midfield and as a full-back, a role he will take up at the Emirates.
Despite his lack of experience, fans were excited to see Tuanzebe start against the Gunners. He will have to face the deadly Alexis Sanchez, but many tipped the teenager to have the game of his life.
Come on lads!! Get the three points. Axel Tuanzebe makes his senior debut today. Hope something good from the lads @ManUtd
— Jose (@Mursheiddd) May 7, 2017
But then again, so happy Tuanzebe is starting.
— Jay (@JayStucchio) May 7, 2017
It is about that time.. Hope Rooney delivers, as well as the debut man Tuanzebe #ARSMUN
— Craig Omore (@CraigOmore) May 7, 2017
Axel Tuanzebe making his PL debut against Arsenal? 2 bullet headers and a clean sheet incoming.
— Ben Alcoe (@Ben_Alcoe) May 7, 2017
Alex tuanzebe cracker incoming today @ManUtd #ARSMUN
— Soumi . (@Soumi09) May 7, 2017
Rooney up front and Tuanzebe at back..wonderful eleven! #ARSMUN
— Mohul Bhowmick (@mohulbhowmick22) May 7, 2017
I don't know who Axel Tuanzebe is, but i'm looking forward to watching his career-defining performance
— YankeeGunner (@YankeeGunner) May 7, 2017
"Pffft, you've never heard of Tuanzebe?" says Man Utd fan who only knows him because he sold him to Barnsley on FIFA 17.
— JOE.co.uk (@JOE_co_uk) May 7, 2017
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