Bendito Mantato makes Man Utd comeback after six-month injury absence, return could be significant

Manchester United youngster Bendito Mantato has returned after a long injury absence.

One of the notable absences for Manchester United during pre-season was young talent Bendito Mantato.

There was an easy explanation for this. Mantato was healing an injury that cut his 2025/26 season short early, at the start of March.

The good news is Mantato has now returned to action.

Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images

Bendito Mantato returns

Bendito Mantato made his return for Manchester United in the under-21 victory over Leicester City on August 31.

United won the game 4-1 with Shea Lacey (2), Amir Ibragimov and Shea Lacey on target.

Mantato made his return at left-back, which is certainly an intriguing development considering Manchester United’s first team need.

During his time representing Manchester United and England at youth level, Mantato has played in a variety of roles.

Mantato has experience playing on both the right and left, at full-back and as a winger.

In 2025/26 he played mainly on the right wing – but did also feature as a left-back early in the season.

Shea Lacey’s inclusion in the under-21s may not be a regular occurence. He is far too good for this level and only dropped down to get some game time.

If Lacey does not play on the right wing in the next game, Mantato could be in for a change of roles.

Mantato has an impressive record of 19 goals in 61 academy appearances so far, demonstrating his attacking ability when given chances in forward areas.

It is good to see the 18-year-old back in action.

Mantato made debut last season

Bendito Mantato made his first team debut in December 2025, called off the bench by Ruben Amorim in the home draw with Wolves.

This game is so far Mantato’s only first team appearance for Manchester United.

Now after overcoming his injury hurdle, Mantato will be determined to make 2026/27 a successful one.

As it is Deadline Day, we cannot exclude the possibility that a loan deal could still happen for Mantato to give him more first team experience.

If he stays, Mantato will be a player worth watching at under-21 level, who could well go on to earn further first team appearances this season.