Manchester United have had a problem with the midfield over the years.
Granted, they’ve had undeniable talent coursing through their ranks, but since Sir Alex Ferguson has left, we’ve never seemed to reclaim the former glory of the likes of club legends such as Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, Michael Carrick and many more.
There have been a few to shine over the years, with Ander Herrera, Paul Pogba, Casemiro and, obviously, Bruno Fernandes – but none of them have reached that level of what their predecessors got to.
But could this be all set to change? The academy ranks are filled with some of the finest midfield talent the Red Devils have seen in years. Here are seven of them who prove Manchester United‘s midfield is in very safe hands going forward.
Kobbie Mainoo
Not much needs to be said about Kobbie Mainoo, everyone surrounding Manchester United can just tell he’s the real deal.
Following a stand-out performance against Everton, the 18-year-old has blown up for Manchester United. His star performances have earned recognition now as a first-team starter, further backed up with classy displays such as the one at Liverpool.
We sincerely hope a few more on this list can follow in his footsteps.
Jack Fletcher
Manchester United’s Jack Fletcher announced himself at Old Trafford last week when the U18s squad played in the FA Youth Cup at the famous ground.
Fletcher, son of Darren, was arguably the best player on the pitch. The 16-year-old was absolutely everywhere and helped his side to a 1-0 victory. He also had a moment of absolute brilliance which was dubbed ‘Bruno-esque‘.
But it wasn’t just this game he impressed in. Thanks to his academy performances, Erik ten Hag believes the 16-year-old has a massive future at the club, and could fast-track him to the first team. He’s one to watch.
Jayce Fitzgerald
Jayce Fitzgerald was one of Fletcher’s midfield partners on the day, and he was again impeccable.
Fitzgerald is also just 16 years of age, but you wouldn’t have thought it watching him for the under-18s this season. He’s always one of the standout performers on the pitch.
He’s also featuring regularly at youth level internationally, which solidifies a future of stardom not just for club, but also for country.
Hannibal Mejbri
Here’s one that United fans will be a little more familiar with, Hannibal Mejbri is also an impressive midfielder who has broken through to the first team this season.
The Tunisian has featured a few times, including some impressive league performances which boasted ‘record-breaking‘ stats. As of late, he hasn’t played as much, but he still possesses undeniable raw talent.
At just 20 years old, the sky is the limit for Hannibal.
Dan Gore
Dan Gore is definitely going to be one of the next names to cement a slot in the first-team squad.
Gore has been a superb asset for Manchester United’s U21s over the past couple of seasons. He is a tenacious midfielder, who can drive from defence to attack.
Gore has featured for the Red Devils first-team before but is right on the fringe of seriously breaking through. He may need game time elsewhere, with recent reports indicating one Championship club is interested.
Finley McAllister
Manchester United’s future captain could easily be Finley McAllister.
McAllister has risen through the youth ranks and is now captain of United’s u18s, whilst also having experience with the armband for his country.
Not only does he play for the Red Devils, but he also is a huge supporter of the club. He was recently spotted in the away end at Goodison Park as Manchester United beat Everton 3-0. United is in his DNA.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/sLjtkoV