Manchester United defender Willy Kambwala was full of joy after making his first senior start at Old Trafford, against Liverpool.
The Academy graduate partnered Harry Maguire throughout our 2-2 draw with Liverpool and coped well with the triple threat of Darwin Nunez, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz.
Winning 100 per cent of his ground duels and completing an impressive 29 passes, the 19-year-old shone and is contributing at a time when the Reds need him most.
With several first-team defenders currently out injured, his contribution was exceptional and he spoke to MUTV's Liam Bradford about his breakthrough campaign.
“I'm really proud of the game, of the team, of everyone, of all my team-mates as well,
“ sad the Reds defender.
”We didn't take the three points, so it is still a bit frustrating and [I'm] disappointed about that because we know we should win the game. We had it under control.
“We fought really well together. We stick together, we defend well at the back four with the keeper, with everyone, and we know we should keep the three points at the end, but, still, I am really proud of the game and what I could achieve.”
After recovering from a mistake to terrifically thwart Nunez in the first half, Kambwala's raw passion and energy impressed those watching inside the Theatre of Dreams.
Noting there is still plenty more to be done, Willy hopes further chances will come before the end of the season.
“It's my job, it's my passion,”
he added.
“I know what I need to do on the pitch. I know I need to give everything from the first moment, to impress and to enjoy it.
”That's what I like to do. So yeah, it's my passion. And I know, like every time I have the opportunity to be on the pitch, I need to give everything to leave everything on the pitch.“
Kambwala's wait for a first-team chance has been years in the making and he also gave a nod to our Academy for their efforts in helping him since his move from Sochaux in 2020.
“Yeah, I'm very proud. Very grateful. Thanks, God. Thanks [to] the manager,”
said Willy.
“Thanks, all the staff for the opportunity they gave to me today.
”I know all the players who come through the Academy. I'm proud to represent this badge, this team and, hopefully, [there is] more to come together in the future.”