2016-2017 Season Performance Review: Axel Tuanzebe
Pre-Season
Axel Tuanzebe featured in the closing minutes of the opening friendly of the season against Wigan. He was left on the bench for the friendly against Borussia Dortmund. The last game of the pre-season Tuanzebe was left at home and did not feature.
Start of the Season
The 19-year old played mostly for the reserves in the first half of the season. He was captain of the side and impressed Mourinho which led to his eventual rise to the first team.
Mid-season
Tuanzebe earned his first appearance for the Red Devils in the 4-0 over Wigan in the FA Cup. Mourinho gave him his debut with about 22 minutes left in the match. He played well and Mourinho in the post-match presser raved about the youngster.
End of the season
With the injuries to Chris Smalling, Phil Jones, and Marcos Rojo, Tuanzebe found himself working solely with the first team. The youngster did not get to feature for the Red Devils but found himself on the bench for several weeks. He finally got his opportunity against Arsenal where he played 90 minutes at right back. He returned and played in the midfield for the final three games of the Premier League. His rise to the first team was well deserved and hopefully in seasons to come he will be able to solidify himself in the first team.
Overall Stats
Tuanzebe featured 5 times on the season for the first team and earned 4 starts in the Premier League. The defender has a bright future and will look to earn himself some more playing time under Mourinho.