Manchester United youngster Sekou Kone made his first start for loan side FC Lausanne as they lost to FC Basel on Sunday afternoon.
Sekou Kone was one of several bright young talents brought to Manchester United as part of Ineos’ strategy to prioritise long-term signings.
It was confirmed in January that Kone has joined sister club FC Lausanne for the remainder of the season on a loan deal, and United staff will be keeping a keen eye on his progress.
Unfortunately, Kone was controversially left out of Lausanne’s Europa Conference League squad, but Kone has shown promise in his appearances off the bench.
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Sekou Kone struggles in first FC Lausanne start
Kone was finally given his chance as a starter in Lausanne’s latest 2-1 defeat to FC Basel in the Swiss Super League.
However, the 20-year-old midfielder will not be overly pleased with his performance.
Kone played the first half before being replaced, and he spent his 45 minutes on the pitch playing as a wide midfielder on the left flank.
As per FotMob, Kone completed 78% of his passes (14/18) and took 33 touches of the ball.
However, he completed none of his three attempted dribbles, won just two of his nine duels and only completed two defensive contributions.
He was the second-lowest rated Lausanne player on the pitch with a 5.9 rating for his performance.
Sekou Kone LEFT OUT of Lausanne’s Conference League squad 📉 Are Ineos to blame?
… or does Kone need to show more to the coaching staff and learn there are no free passes? 🚫
Sekou Kone deserves time after Lausanne controversy
United scouts are excited by Kone and his potential, but he will need time to adjust and truly show his talent.
Last season was spent giving Kone time to adjust to Manchester, and now he is trying to break into the first team at Lausanne. Facing Basel in his first start is not an easy match, especially playing out of position on the wing.
Plus, Kone’s time out on loan has been shrouded by the controversial Europa Conference League snub, which has attracted unnecessary attention to his time at the club.
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Kone is viewed as a long-term Casemiro replacement, so United will be eager for him to kick on. His biggest challenge is now putting his last performance behind him.
Lausanne are next in action against FC Zurich on Wednesday afternoon, which will be Kone’s next chance to impress.
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