Former Man United defender backs Yoro to be key player for ‘the next decade’

Mikael Silvestre, a four-time Premier League winner with Manchester United, has tipped Leny Yoro to anchor the club’s defence for the foreseeable future, declaring the 20-year-old centre-back can become “a key player for the club for many years, maybe even the next decade.”

Yoro, signed from Lille in 2024, has already amassed 61 senior appearances for United after the Red Devils fended off late interest from Real Madrid to secure one of Europe’s most coveted defensive talents. A recent run of four consecutive starts under interim boss Michael Carrick has underlined the Frenchman’s rapid ascent, and Silvestre—who watched the youngster’s progress long before the move to Old Trafford—likes what he sees.

“He was on everyone’s radar straight away, especially mine as a defender,” Silvestre told reporters. “What stands out is his composure; he’s a really good footballer. It’s been great to see how quickly he’s developed, and I was delighted when he joined Manchester United because he’s a real asset.”

Silvestre, himself a former France international, believes Yoro’s calmness in possession and reading of the game set him apart from other young defenders. The ex-United man sees no reason why the Lille academy graduate cannot establish himself as a fixture in the starting XI, provided his current trajectory continues.

United supporters have witnessed flashes of that potential in recent weeks, with Yoro’s positioning and assurance on the ball helping to stabilise a back line that has cycled through personnel and formations. If Silvestre’s prediction proves accurate, the 20-year-old could form the backbone of the team well into the 2030s.