Willy Kambwala Idolized Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk Before Joining Manchester United as He Debuts vs West Ham United

It appears that Manchester United‘s newest rising star, Willy Kambwala, is a big fan of Virgil van Dijk. In a surprising twist, Kambwala has been selected by coach Erik ten Hag to make his debut for the senior team. As the anticipation builds for his debut, it has come to light that the French defender holds great admiration for Manchester United’s fierce rivals, Liverpool’s star.

At just 19 years of age, Kambwala is set to make his senior team debut for Manchester United against West Ham United. This momentous occasion comes after three years of playing at the youth level for the club.

Willy Kambwala is a huge Virgil van Dijk fan

Following the big news of his debut, a past interview of Kambwala has resurfaced. The interview is from his time at the youth level of French side FC Sochaux. The teenager was asked if he had any favorite players. With some initial hesitance, he mentioned Van Dijk alongside Al Hilal’s Kalidou Koulibaly.

“I don’t have a favorite player, but if I had to choose, I’d say Van Djik and Koulibaly,” said Willy Kambwala. He praised the two defenders, stating, “They’re the two best central players over the last three years.” Now, as he prepares to make his senior team debut, there is a chance that he may eventually find himself facing off against his once-favorite player.

His debut also proposed another question as to what prompted Erik ten Hag to start this young talent for the match against West Ham United. The answer can be found in the long list of injuries that have plagued the team.

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Healthy defenders are scarce for Erik ten Hag

Manchester United is currently facing significant challenges with injuries, particularly in their defense. Key players such as Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, and Tyrell Malacia are all sidelined due to injury. Additionally, Raphael Varane is currently ill and Diogo Dalot is suspended after receiving a red card in the match against Liverpool.

As a result of these circumstances, Willy Kambwala has been given the opportunity by Ten Hag to make his debut.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

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