Stars prospect Tyler Onyango shines in Everton’s draw with Man United
By Kenneth Mwenda, August 4, 2025Kenyan prospect Tyler Onyango continued to stake his claim for more first-team minutes after featuring for Everton in a 2-2 draw against Manchester United during a preseason clash at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia on Sunday, August 4, 2025.
The 22-year-old, who is eligible to represent both Kenya and England, came on in the 61st minute, replacing experienced centre-back James Tarkowski. The versatile midfielder slotted into Everton’s defensive setup as the Toffees came from behind twice to deny United a clean sweep in the Premier League Summer Series.
Manchester United opened the scoring in the 18th minute through a Bruno Fernandes penalty after Tarkowski was judged to have pulled down Amad Diallo in the box. Despite Everton protests, Fernandes coolly slotted home his second spot-kick of the tour.
Everton, under David Moyes, showed resilience and equalised before half-time. Idrissa Gueye delivered a pinpoint cross from the right, which Iliman Ndiaye converted at the far post, capitalising on a midfield error from Manuel Ugarte.
United appeared to have regained control in the second half after Mason Mount curled in a beautiful finish past Jordan Pickford following an intricate exchange with Fernandes. But Everton salvaged a draw in dramatic and fortunate fashion when a miscue by Amad ricocheted off teammate Ayden Heaven and crept into the net for an own goal.
Despite ending the U.S. tour without a win after earlier losses to Bournemouth and West Ham, Everton can take positives from their spirited display, including Onyango’s composed cameo.
Versatile Onyango
Tyler Jaden Napier Edward Onyango, born on March 4, 2003, is an Everton academy product known for his versatility. He can operate as a central midfielder, centre-back, or right-back. He made his senior debut for Everton in January 2021 and has since had loan spells at Burton Albion, Forest Green Rovers, and Stockport County to gain experience.
Injuries have slightly hindered his progression, but his appearance against Manchester United could signal a fresh start under Moyes. Onyango is also on the radar of the Harambee Stars, given his Kenyan heritage through his father. Though capped by England at U17 level, the midfielder remains eligible for Kenya and could be a key addition to the national side if capped.