The Manchester United academy are dominant at U18 level and now the U17s are also chasing silverware this season.
Manchester United is built upon youth success, something which is deeply ingrained within the club.
From the Busby Babes to the Class of 92′ and most recently 2023/24’s treble-winning United U18s, it is always worth keeping tabs on the academy with a keen eye for the next breakout star.
With 251 academy graduates in the books, United have several talents right now who are looking like possible options who will be added to this list.
Within the U17 side that competed in the U17 Premier League Cup on Tuesday night, there are a handful of academy prospects who are future graduates.
Manchester United U17 beat Newcastle United
Tuesday night saw the quarter-finals of this season’s U17 Premier League played out with United taking on Newcastle at Carrington.
With a spot in the semi-finals up for grabs, the Magpies took a 1-0 lead, but in typical United fashion, a comeback was on the cards.
United came from behind to win the tie 2-1 on the night and move within 90 minutes of the final – with the semi-final draw yet to be revealed.
14-year-old Douka Nkoto scored for United as he continued his impressive season which could potentially even end in a U18 debut. Also among the goals was 17-year-old Jim Thwaites who has already caught the eye at U18 level this season with his set-piece ability.
Another exciting point is that 14-year-old JJ Gabriel who has been dubbed as the ‘Kid Messi’ made his U17 debut. This is exciting for numerous reasons, but especially as he is tipped to progress rather quickly through the ranks to U18 level.
On his debut, Gabriel is said to have played a big part.
READ: Man Utd under-18s top scorers and assists in 2024/25, all results
JJ Gabriel is a very special talent.
Gabriel making his U17 debut is a big step in the right direction for the United wonderkid.
It follows earlier this season when Gabriel was promoted to U18 training, and everything is moving in the one direction.
Due to his remarkable talent, Gabriel is expected to debut as a U18 this season, which speaks volumes as to the way he is viewed by the club.
In terms of talents below U18 level at the club, there are few more exciting, with Gabriel having the potential to be a truly special footballer.
It is very early in his career, but the signs are there – hopefully we see him with the U18s this year and hopefully he does not end up elsewhere.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
