Who is Willy Kambwala? Man Utd's 19-year-old Varane replacement

Tom Weber

• Updated: 23 Dec 2023 14:21 GMT
• 3 min read

Willy Kambwala left a good impression on his Manchester United debut.

The 19-year-old academy graduate was thrown into the deep end by Erik ten Hag due to the Red Devils' defensive injury crisis and did not put a foot wrong against West Ham. If he continues to perform at the same level, he could be a long-term solution to Man Utd's defensive problems.

But who is Willy Kambwala and how good is he really?

What position does Kambwala play in?

Willy Kambwala is a central defender.

How good is Kambwala?

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo but representing France at the youth level, Willy Kambwala joined Man Utd's academy from Sochaux in 2020. The former captain of France's U16s, the defender moved up the ranks at Carrington, stepping up from the U18s to the U21s in 2022. Kambwala was given his first taste of senior football when Erik ten Hag included him in the matchday squad to face Liverpool in December 2023, but the youngster did not get on the pitch.

His debut, however, came just a week later as the Dutch coach started him alongside veteran Jonny Evans away at West Ham due to an injury crisis. Against the Hammers, Kambwala did not put a foot wrong, doing exactly what was expected of him. Before the game, Ten Hag spoke highly of the youngster.

"He's calm, he's made a good impression in training, but of course he's inexperienced and this is a big moment for him. He's athletic, calm on the ball and now he has his opportunity," the boss said and he was proved correct as the 19-year-old looked an assured presence at the heart of the defence. With the centre-back position giving the Red Devils repeated headaches, the youngster could be a long-term, in-house solution to the problem.

What clubs are interested in Kambwala?

FootballTransfers is not aware of any concrete transfer interest in the Man Utd academy graduate.

When does Kambwala's contract expire?

Kambwala's expires on June 30, 2025.

How old is Kambwala?

Kambwala was born on August 25, 2004, making him 19 years old.

What is Kambwala's Instagram?

Kambwala's Instagram account is @willy_kams and has 38k followers as of December 2023.