Manchester United have seen so many talents emerge at Old Trafford, but ultimately fail to become first-team stars.
The journey from academy prospect to Old Trafford hero is a difficult one.
Marcus Rashford appeared to have cracked it, but even he now finds himself at Aston Villa after struggling earlier this season.
Kobbie Mainoo was Manchester United’s homegrown hero last season, but this season has been much trickier for him.
Adnan Januzaj fizzled out at United, whilst Josh Harrop finds himself in the Baller League after scoring on his first Premier League start for United.
That just goes to show how difficult it really is to enjoy sustained success after emerging in the academy ranks.
Former Manchester United striker James Wilson a free agent once again
Another prime example is James Wilson.
United fans will remember Wilson making his senior debut for the club as Ryan Giggs named him in the starting XI against Hull City in 2014.
Wilson scored twice in a United victory, sparking major excitement over his future at Old Trafford.
A string of disappointing loans followed with Brighton and Hove Albion, Derby County, Sheffield United and Aberdeen before United released Wilson in 2019.
That early promise just didn’t amount to anything for Wilson at United, and he departed with four goals in 20 games.
The last few years have been testing for Wilson, first failing to kick on after joining Aberdeen permanently.
A spell with Gary Neville’s Salford City brought 10 goals in 35 games before the Biddulph-born striker returned to his Staffordshire roots with Port Vale.
15 goals in his first season was a great start, but Vale released Wilson last summer after 23 goals in 105 games.
Fast forward a year and Wilson is a free agent for the second summer in a row, with Northampton Town confirming Wilson’s departure.
The Cobblers signed Wilson to a one-year deal with the option of a second year, but have let him go after a goalless season.
Wilson managed just 133 minutes of League One action across nine substitute appearances, failing to score for Kevin Nolan’s side.
Ryan Giggs was left frustrated by United’s treatment of Wilson
Wilson will now search for another club, possibly in League One or League Two.
The striker’s career hasn’t quite panned out as we hoped or expected after his electric debut 11 years ago.
The opportunities to shine at United just didn’t arrive, much to the annoyance of Ryan Giggs.
Giggs – who brought Wilson into the team during his interim spell as manager – was frustrated with the striker’s lack of chances, according to The Times.
Giggs assisted Louis van Gaal back then, but the Dutchman did not budge and sent him on loan to Brighton.
Wilson may look back on his United career with feelings that he should have played more games, but will now focus on looking forward to his next opportunity after leaving Northampton.
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