Manchester United have several youngsters who will feel they could make a first-team debut before the 2024/25 season comes to a close next month.
With Ruben Amorim’s side sitting outside the top 10 and realistically having an impossible task to push up into the European spots, all focus is on the Europa League.
Manchester United drew leg one of the quarter finals against Lyon on Thursday over in France, and they look well placed to line-up a semi-final date with Athletic Bilbao in May.
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Due to this, it is highly plausible that United will look to rest star players in the league, giving an opportunity to some standout academy players to step up into the first team.
Chido Obi looks likely to get quite a few minutes over the coming weeks with virtually no pressure on his shoulders in the league, while Harry Amass could also be utilised to give Patrick Dorgu some rest, but there are other positions in which academy talents could give needed relief to senior players.
One is currently doing what he needs to do in order to earn this chance.
READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
Amir Ibragimov is beginning to look levels above U18 football
When listing the most exciting talents within Carrington, Amir Ibragimov is sure to get a mention as he has backed up his potential this season on the step up into the higher academy age groups.
Prior to this season, Ibragimov had lofty ambitions to earn a first-team debut, which he has been quietly doing as the season comes to a close.
On Saturday, Ibragimov scored his 10th goal of the season across U21 and U18 football, adding to his 10 assists. The 17-year-old has a lot more in U17 action earlier this season as well in a season which has established him as one of the best.
This latest goal for Ibragimov came as United beat Forest 3-0 on Shea Lacey’s return to action and continued a recent hot streak, which should have him catching Amorim’s eye.
Lacey has a goal and three assists in the last two games and has an impact beyond just goal contributions, which could make him an exciting player to see facing Premier League opposition.
Manchester United should give Amir Ibragimov senior experience
It was only last week that Ibragimov turned 17 and signed his professional contract, but the club should be eager to get him in and around the first team.
This is not because he will be an instant hit – although he very well might be – but rather because giving him the experiences will only hasten the development of Ibragimov.
Ibragimov is a player defenders hate to play against, and his drop back into midfield has seen him slightly resemble Bruno Fernandes in the way he controls games, can progress play, be a goal threat but also put in the defensive work needed.
As a footballer, Ibragimov has everything needed to succeed at United, with his ability and mentality spot on. He has such a strong chance of becoming elite.
So now the club should do its part and hand him minutes over the coming months under Amorim. He may end up saving the club millions.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/I3GHlr1