6 Manchester United Players that can have a breakthrough season this year

#4 Axel Tuanzebe

Axel Tuanzebe - the next big defensive star in the United roster?

Another Manchester-born player, Axel Tuanzebe has been a part of United's setup since he was eight years old. He can play as a centre back and as a right-back.

Having risen through the ranks, the defender made his senior team debut in 2016/17, under Jose Mourinho.

He played a string of games during the end of the season, with Mourinho playing him at right-back and as a central defensive midfielder. He's an excellent tackler and passer, with a strong aerial presence too.

He spent the last season on loan at Aston Villa FC, where he made a low but impressive 5 appearances in the English second tier.

He averaged 3.2 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 3.8 clearances during that time and won 85% of his aerial duels. He has been praised by former United youth coach Paul McGuiness, comparing him to Gary Neville.

He has won the Young Player of the Year award as well as the Reserve Player of the Year award, which pays for his immense potential and talent.

With Manchester United having a defensive injury crisis every season and Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and Marcos Rojo highly inconsistent (not to mention, Rojo's weekly two-footed WWE challenge on attackers), it might be the right time to bring him into the first team plans. He can also be prepared to be Antonio Valencia's long-term replacement if United want.

He's an extremely good player and can adapt to any role he's deployed in and maybe after having a good run of PL and Cup games, he can realize his true potential and have a splendid season.

Statistics - WhoScored.com