London (BN24) – A National League Cup match between Manchester United’s under-21s and Tamworth was abandoned Wednesday night after United midfielder Sekou Kone suffered a serious head injury.
The incident occurred late in the first half at The Lamb Ground when the 19-year-old collided with an opponent while defending a corner. Kone initially stood up after the impact but quickly returned to the ground, prompting urgent medical attention. He was treated on the pitch for about 15 minutes before being stretchered off and taken out of the stadium.
The match was first suspended as teams awaited a replacement ambulance, but officials later confirmed it would not resume.
Kone, signed from Malian club Guidars FC for about £1 million last year, has yet to make a competitive appearance for Manchester United’s senior team but has featured in pre-season tours and been named on the bench for Premier League fixtures, including against Tottenham, Everton and Nottingham Forest.
Under-21 coach Travis Binnion previously described Kone as a “long-term project” with clear talent, noting the focus on improving his positional discipline and decision-making. The club had been considering a loan move to give the midfielder more first-team experience this season.
United’s U21s remain in Group A of the competition alongside Brackley, Rochdale and Solihull Moors. No further details on Kone’s condition were immediately available.
