Kambwala’s Move to Villarreal
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has extended his best wishes to Willy Kambwala following the young defender’s transfer to Villarreal. Kambwala made his senior debut for United last season and recorded eight Premier League appearances, along with two FA Cup appearances. The move to Villarreal is valued at up to £9.6 million.
Sentiments from Mainoo and Kambwala
Mainoo, who knows Kambwala from their time in United’s academy, shared his support on Instagram, writing, “Big love bro, all the best.” Kambwala expressed his gratitude towards the club and its supporters in a heartfelt social media post:
“Dear @manchesterunited, I arrived at the club as a boy with a dream and today I’m leaving like a young man who has fulfilled his dream. From the academy to the first team, it’s time for me to start a new adventure after 4 wonderful seasons at the club. Thank you to all the people I have met during these 4 years. Coaches, my teammates, staff members, workers in Carrington and members of my host family. I’ll never forget what you all did for me. A special thank you to you fans who have always supported me, you are the soul of this club. I wish you the best for this season and for the future.”
United’s Transfer Details
United have included a buy-back option and a significant sell-on clause in Kambwala’s deal. The 19-year-old joins former United player Eric Bailly at Villarreal, along with other former Premier League players such as Alexander Sorloth and Juan Foyth.
Support from Academy Teammates
Other United academy talents, including Joe Hugill, Dan Gore, Maxi Oyedele, and Toby Collyer, also shared messages of support for Kambwala. Ethan Wheatley, who recently played in United’s pre-season match against Rosenborg, also extended his well-wishes.
Erik ten Hag’s Pre-Season Reflections
United’s manager Erik ten Hag expressed disappointment following the team’s 1-0 loss to Rosenborg in their first pre-season match. Despite the squad mainly comprising youngsters, Ten Hag emphasized the need for better performance:
“The result is not secondary. Our performance as a team is by far not good enough. This is not the standard of top football. We are Man Utd, we should perform better.”
Kambwala’s departure marks a new chapter for the young defender as he joins Villarreal, taking with him the support and well-wishes of his former teammates and club. As United continues to shape its squad, the move highlights the club’s strategic approach to nurturing and transferring young talent.