Ole Gunnar Solskjaer highlights Man Utd teenager who has ‘something special’

The 18-year-old center-back enjoyed an impressive season for the U-23s last season, culminating in his first-team debut as a late substitute in a 2-1 win over LASK in August.

Solskjaer has made clear his intention to use the academy products at his disposal, bringing Brandon Williams and Mason Greenwood into the senior team to great effect last season.

With United yet to sign a new center back this summer, Mengi could have more chances to impress next season.

Norwegian boss Solskjaer expects even more improvements from his young prospects and sees “something special” in Mengi.

“Both Mason and Brandon will get better, even Marcus and Scott are at an age where they will get better,” Solskjaer told BBC Radio 5 Live.

Dean Henderson is that age, he is one of us who is going to get ahead.

“We always had that in the back of our minds that our academy will provide players and Teden has definitely impressed me. They are different defenders who rely on the big stage, of course it is.

You have to make sure he’s ready for it, you see examples from Ajax, who play in a different league, but Matthijs de Ligt, they named him captain when he was 18. You can see something special in them.

Teden has something special about him. It’s about choosing the right time to give it a try.

“Brandon Williams did exceptionally well last season coming in as a defender. A defender or goalkeeper who makes a mistake can cost a team, a forward who misses an opportunity is as if he is at least there for the opportunity.

“Forwards can always win you a game with their enthusiasm, youth, courage and without fear of failing. Defenders have to make sure they’re ready because you can’t really tell how they’ll react if they make a mistake. ‘

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