Today marked the official Manchester City debut for 18-year-old Divine Mukasa, who is eligible to represent Lithuania at international level. The attacking midfielder provided an assist that helped the English giants secure a 2-0 victory over League One side Huddersfield in the EFL Cup.
Mukasa, who in the summer visited Lithuania meeting with officials from the Lithuanian Football Federation – including president Edgaras Stankevičius and national team head coach Edgaras Jankauskas – was handed a starting role by Pep Guardiola’s side.
The talented youngster, who last season dominated for Manchester United’s U18s in the U18 Premier League, had already been included on City’s first-team bench several times this season. This time, however, he stepped onto the pitch from the opening whistle.
Mukasa, whose Lithuanian roots come from his mother Laima, made an immediate impact. In the first half, he set up England star Phil Foden for the game’s opening goal. City doubled their lead after the break, sealing a spot in the next round of the competition.
Lining up as a forward, Mukasa was a lively presence throughout his debut as he played an entire game. Beyond his assist, he registered a game-high six shots, with two on target, showcasing the confidence and attacking instincts that made him one of the most talked-about academy players in England.
