Manchester United defender Leny Yoro has acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with playing for a club steeped in history.
The 19-year-old, who has Ivorian roots, is enjoying a breakout season at Old Trafford, helping United reach the Europa League final in his first campaign with the club.
Despite his youth, Yoro is aware of the high expectations that come with donning the famous red shirt.
“I’m still a young player, but on the pitch this means nothing,” Yoro said.
“When you join a big club like Manchester United, you have to settle quickly because the fans are waiting for you, even with a big transfer like I had. So, yeah, it was important to settle really quickly.”
He added, “When you play for Manchester United, you need to feel this history – this is a club of trophies. I think it will be important to think about this. We’re Manchester United, and we need to win trophies.”
Yoro also revealed that he regularly seeks advice from former United great Rio Ferdinand, one of the club’s legendary defenders, as he aims to leave his own mark.
“I speak a lot with the coach, and I’ve spoken to Rio, not always in front of the cameras,” Yoro said.
“Sometimes they just give me advice. When a player like Rio can give you advice, you need to take it. I try to do my best and follow what they tell me.”
Reflecting on comparisons to Ferdinand, Yoro said, “I came to Man United to achieve big things, to win trophies, so when you see players like Rio Ferdinand, Vidic, Varane, you want to achieve the same things as them, stay in the memory of fans, and be a big defender.”
