Bolton Wanderers vs Port Vale

“Even my time at Huddersfield was
a blessing in disguise,” said the
19-year-old. “I learned a lot and it
made me stronger as a person.
“But I’m happy to be here and
happy to move forward with the
team.
“I’ve enjoyed it a lot. Everyone
has really welcomed me, which has
made me feel comfortable
and made me enjoy my football
more.”
Mature beyond his years on the
pitch as a physically strong, ballplaying,
left-sided central defender,
Mbete has certainly settled in well
with Wanderers.
Quickly looking at home in his
new environment, he is part of
the success story the Whites are
enjoying in their recruitment of
young players on loan from the
powerhouse clubs of the North-
West and some of the best in this
country and beyond.
“I think it’s good for players like me,
Shola and Traff, and Conor as well,”
added Mbete.
“We’re all young players, so we can
learn from the guys in the changing
room with experience and we can
add to our game from that.”
City team-mate James Trafford
goes into today’s game against
Port Vale having not conceded a
goal in nine home games.
Liverpool wing-back Conor Bradley
has also played a large part in
that miserly run, while exciting
Manchester United teenager Shola
Shoretire is another who is making
the most of a mutually beneficial
stay with the Whites.
“When you’re at a club you’ve
got to love the club as much as
everybody else does,” insisted
Mbete.
“And I love the club already to be
honest and I’m just excited to help
the team as much as I can.”
It’s a beautiful thing to hear,
although Mbete can be excused a
second love interest.
As a Manchester City player he
also has on-going allegiances with
the defending Premier League
champions.
After coming through City’s
Academy ranks – having started
out in Brentford’s youth system –
he helped City win the FA Youth
Cup in 2020 before advancing
through the U21s to appear in three
separate cup competitions for Pep
Guardiola’s senior side last season.
And while his own focus is on
helping Wanderers try and finish
the season on a high, he also
hopes to see more silverware
make its way to the Etihad Stadium.
“I send City my love,” Mbete
added. “I’m always watching them
and I hope they get what they want
and what they deserve at the end
of the season.”
Much to look forward to indeed.
www.bwfc.co.uk
The Wanderer | 23