Man Utd land promising left-back Leon

"Left-back wanted" - this headline in Paraguay's most-read newspaper ABC Color marked the beginning of Diego Leon's remarkable journey to Manchester United.

From Youth Team to First Team Hero

When Cerro Porteno faced Sportivo Ameliano in August, coach Manolo Jimenez faced a dilemma. With both senior left-backs injured, he had to choose between playing right-back Victor Cabanas out of position or giving 17-year-old Leon his senior debut.

The teenager, who just months earlier was playing for Cerro's U-17 team, not only started but scored the winning goal with a powerful header in a 1-0 victory. A week later, he scored again and was named Player of the Month by Paraguay's coaches association.

"This is what every kid dreams of. I invite you all to dream. I'm a dreamer," Leon said after his breakthrough.

The Path to Old Trafford

Leon's performances attracted attention from top European clubs including Arsenal and Manchester City, but Manchester United's long-term vision convinced him. The deal, agreed in January, was officially completed in July 2025.

Cerro president Juan Jose Zapag describes him as: "A left-back like no other in the world, the kind that's rare to find."

From Humble Beginnings to Big Dreams

The youngest of nine siblings from a humble family in Juan Emilio O'Leary, Leon's first priority after signing is building a house for his parents. His journey began at age 12 when he left for Cerro Porteno's academy in Asuncion.

Former Paraguay international Diego Gavilan, who coached Leon at Cerro, told BBC Sport:

"At 17, there's still plenty for Leon to learn. Moving to England will be a massive change - new country, new continent, different football culture. But United know what they're getting and will give him time."

Playing Style and Potential

Leon's background as a left winger explains his attacking prowess:

• Lightning quick with excellent physical power
• Comfortable overlapping and joining attacks
• Needs to improve defensive positioning
• Models his game after Real Madrid legend Marcelo

His former coach Jimenez, who developed talents like Sergio Ramos at Sevilla, said:

"Physically, he's a powerhouse. Hopefully one day we can say he's had a career like Marcelo's or Patrice Evra's at United."

A Rare Direct Move

Cerro's head of scouting Hernan Acuna notes the significance of Leon's transfer:

"It's been a long time since a player moved directly from Cerro to the Premier League. Most go via other South American clubs first, like Miguel Almiron did before Newcastle."

While Leon may need time to adapt, his rare combination of physical gifts and attacking flair makes him one of South America's most exciting defensive prospects.