Yoro Reflects on First Season at United Amidst Early Challenges

After rising through the renowned youth system at Lille, which has produced talents like Eden Hazard and Benjamin Pavard, Yoro faced a challenging inaugural season at Manchester United.

The 19-year-old encountered injury struggles during a debut campaign that culminated in Ruben Amorim’s side finishing 15th in the Premier League—their lowest placement since 1990. Additionally, United was defeated by Tottenham in the Europa League final, with Brennan Johnson scoring the decisive goal, preventing the club from securing European football for the 2025-26 season.

Yoro’s circumstances might have been drastically different had he opted to join La Liga giants Real Madrid, who were under the management of Carlo Ancelotti at the time. The Spanish club sought to bolster their defensive lineup by acquiring the young talent, who had only a year remaining on his contract with Lille.

Despite the difficult start to his career in England, Yoro remains steadfast that he made the right choice in joining United. He expressed his sentiments to The Guardian, stating, “Even with last season, I never had this feeling of regret. I know Manchester United; I understand that sometimes you can experience a challenging season, but this club is a top club, and I have no doubts about that. I was aware of the club’s project before I arrived.

“Of course, I didn’t anticipate finishing my first year in 15th position. These are challenges one must face. However, the club’s director, the coach, and all the players are here to support you every day. I have confidence in this club. It is essential to keep your head held high and strive to do your best each day. My choice is Manchester, and I’m genuinely happy with it. I understand some people questioned my decision last year due to the results, but ultimately, it is my choice and my career.”

Following a difficult start to the 2025-26 season, where United managed just one victory in their first five matches across all competitions, the team’s fortunes appear to be improving. The Red Devils are currently undefeated in their last four league games, having triumphed over Sunderland, Liverpool, and Brighton, while also securing a draw against Nottingham Forest.

This resurgence in form led to Amorim being named Manager of the Month for October, a recognition he attributed to his players. “I’m really happy,” said Amorim. “Not just for my staff, but also for my players. They deserve full credit for this award because, ultimately, the manager who wins this kind of accolade isn’t necessarily the best, but rather the one whose team performed well during that month. I hope to win the next one as it signifies we are achieving success on the pitch.”

Yoro and his teammates are looking to extend their unbeaten streak to five games as they prepare to face Tottenham, who previously defeated them in the Europa League, in the league on Saturday afternoon. While United approaches this match in high spirits, Spurs will be eager to improve their league performance after a disappointing derby-day loss to Chelsea last weekend.

Thomas Frank’s squad faced criticism following their 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, but they bounced back with a resounding 4-0 victory over Copenhagen in the Champions League, igniting optimism among their supporters. Defender Micky van de Ven’s spectacular goal, along with contributions from Johnson, Wilson Odobert, and Joao Palhinha, marked only their second win in the last six matches across all competitions.