Manchester United were held to a 0-0 draw by newly promoted Leeds United in their first pre-season outing in Stockholm, as young debutant Diego Leon offered a glimpse of his potential.
The 18-year-old Paraguayan left-back, signed from Cerro Porteno where he made 33 senior appearances, was handed a start by head coach Ruben Amorim. United’s decision to assign him the number 30 shirt and loan out promising English defender Harry Amass suggested the club’s belief in Leon’s long-term value.
Leon was joined in the starting lineup by new signing Matheus Cunha, who made his first appearance since joining from Wolves. Despite the goalless scoreline, Leon impressed with a composed pass to Chido Obi in the box and quick defensive adjustments after early pressure from Willy Gnonto and Jayden Bogle. Luke Shaw, playing in central defence, offered vocal guidance that helped steady the teenager.
Leon even attempted a difficult rebound shot after Casemiro’s deflected effort struck the crossbar, a bold move that showed his attacking intent.
“He’s just getting started but already showing great signs,” said Amorim. “He’s strong and learning quickly. He’ll be a very good player.”
All starters were substituted at half-time as United look ahead to the Premier League Summer Series in the United States.
At the other end of the pitch, experienced goalkeeper Tom Heaton, stepping in for the injured Andre Onana, was vital in keeping Leeds out. The 39-year-old made three key saves, including back-to-back stops against Largie Ramazani and a reflex effort to deny Jayden Bogle after a clever setup by Joel Piroe.
Amorim praised the team’s togetherness after the match. “We’re building something here. There will be tough moments, but what matters is we face them as one. Of course, effort alone isn’t enough. Manchester United demands quality — and results.”
Leeds, who did not include striker Patrick Bamford in the squad, gave starts to Jack Harrison and first appearances to Jaka Bijol and Lukas Nmecha. Gabriel Gudmundsson, Sean Longstaff and Sebastiaan Bornauw all came off the bench in the second half.
Leeds co-owner Will Ferrell watched from the stands as the team stood firm. News later emerged that the club had agreed a £17 million deal with Hoffenheim for German midfielder Anton Stach, signaling more reinforcements ahead of their Premier League return on August 18 against Everton.
United came close to winning it late. Kobbie Mainoo hit the crossbar, while Ayden Heaven forced a sharp save from Illan Meslier during a frantic final few minutes. But in the end, both sides settled for a draw.
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