Former Manchester United youngster Callum Gribbin is battling to save his career after suffering a serious knee injury.
Callum Gribbin, 24, was once regarded as one of Manchester United’s brightest youth talents, representing England at under-16s and under-17s levels.
The attacking midfielder earned praise with highlight-worthy goals for Manchester United’s under-18s and under-21 sides, but fell short of making the grade at Old Trafford.
Gribbin was released in 2019, a year after being dubbed the ‘English Messi’ by The Sun. He is pictured below second right on the front row, in the same under-18s side as Marcus Rashford and Axel Tuanzebe.
Callum Gribbin latest
Callum Gribbin was 20 when he was released and has not had a straightforward career since. He signed with Sheffield United’s development squad, but only stayed a year with the Blades.
Gribbin made his professional debut for League Two side Barrow in 2020, but only made five total appearances, with injuries curtailing his success.
He has been playing in non-league since, first with Radcliffe and then last summer signing with FC United of Manchester, where he was given the number seven shirt.
The Salford born midfielder suffered a serious knee injury while playing for FC United of Manchester, after what The MEN described as a ‘horror tackle’.
Gribbin’s recovery will require surgery after rupturing his ACL, medial ligament and posterior ligament.
While the PFA will stump up half the cash, Gribbin had to put together a fundraiser for the remaining £10,000, a total which has now been raised.
Like any injuries of such a serious nature, Gribbin has a long road ahead to recover, which is expected to put him out of action for 12 months.
Gribbin was a player with clear talent, his ability shone through for United’s academy sides. Injuries have negatively impacted him up until now, and we just hope he finds the strength to keep going, and fight back stronger.
At 24, he could still prolong his career in non-league football and become a late bloomer. For now, it is a matter of fighting to get back onto the pitch at all.
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