Leny Yoro, the 20-year-old French defender, is aiming to establish himself as a key player at Manchester United following a challenging start to his Premier League career. Signed from Lille in 2024 for a reported £50 million, Yoro's progression at Old Trafford has been hindered by injuries and managerial changes since his arrival.
Yoro made his professional debut with Lille at age 16 and attracted interest from major European clubs, including Real Madrid, before United secured his signature under then-manager Erik ten Hag. However, over two years at Manchester United, Yoro has made 66 appearances, starting only 30 in the Premier League. His first season was disrupted by a metatarsal injury sustained early in pre-season, sidelining him until December and delaying his adaptation to English football.
Despite these setbacks, Yoro is optimistic about his prospects under current interim manager Michael Carrick. He recently contributed to United’s victory in the Snapdragon Cup in Stockholm, where they defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1. Yoro highlighted his desire to stay injury-free and demonstrate his capabilities on the field. “I have no excuses, but I had injuries, and I hope I’m not going to be injured this season, and I will show to everyone what I can do,” he said. He acknowledged the importance of a productive pre-season to prepare for the upcoming campaign and expressed confidence in reaching his potential.
Having accumulated 139 senior career appearances across all competitions, Yoro recognizes both his early achievements and the need for continued development. “Sometimes people forget I’m still 20, still have to learn, still have to improve,” he stated. “I know I can learn a lot, I can improve a lot, so I hope this season is going to be a big step for me as well.”
During pre-season, Yoro has been utilized at right-back in the absence of regular starters Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui, starting all three matches in the position. While he has adapted to this role, he maintains that his preferred position remains in central defense. Yoro said he is prepared to compete with teammates Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Ayden Heaven for a regular starting spot in the center of defense but welcomes opportunities to contribute elsewhere on the pitch.
Manchester United finished third in the Premier League last season, rallying under Carrick’s leadership. Yoro believes the club has the quality to challenge for the title this season. “We are Manchester United, so we have to think like that, and I know we have the potential to do it. Now we have to do it,” he said, underscoring his ambition to play a significant role in the team’s pursuit of success.