Manchester United have a rich history of promoting youth players, so after Kobbie Mainoo lit up Goodison Park, who’s next?
Kobbie Mainoo is a player many familiar with Manchester United have been excited about for a long time. Then on Saturday, that belief was justified as the 18-year-old bossed the midfield all on his own.
Mainoo was immaculate and offered more in midfield than seasoned professionals such as Casemiro and Sofyan Amrabat do.
He was so good that Gary Neville gave him the best compliment possible. While England boss Gareth Southgate was so impressed by the youngster he’s said to be already discussing a call-up.
But with Mainoo now deeply ingrained into the first team, the question has been raised – who is next to make a push to play for the first team? These six are who we think could make it…
Shea Lacey
Shea Lacey according to many is the biggest talent the Manchester United academy has seen in quite some time. For all the hype surrounding Mainoo, Lacey is believed to have the potential to be even better.
Lacey has been likened to Phil Foden in terms of his excellent dribbling and ball control when cutting in from the right wing.
The 16-year-old also signed a new contract at United just before the start of this season. Lacey is a player who we could see in the next year beginning to ask questions of the first team.
With similarities to Wayne Rooney, making his debut at 16 would be fitting, however, due to injury, it’s unlikely he will break through this season. But he is a special talent and a player we’re convinced will make it.
Jayce Fitzgerald
Next up is 16-year-old central midfielder Jayce Fitzgerald who can also play at right-back. Fitzgerald is mentioned in the same breath as Lacey a lot of the time and has significant potential.
This season he has been performing well for the U18s with one goal and two assists in eight appearances. Amongst these was his wonder goal which he hit against Leeds in October.
With excellent passing and ball control, he looks like a real Erik ten Hag midfielder.
He is a top talent, but don’t just take our word for it, here are some of his best bits…
Ethan Wheatley
Ethan Wheatley has exploded this season and is scoring goals in every competition for United’s U18s. Most recently last weekend he scored four goals against Southampton.
Wheatley is a striker, which is a position United haven’t had much luck producing but with Wheatley reportedly signing a new contract soon, clearly hopes are high.
Wheatley is capable of scoring every type of goal which is a good sign and has some proper strikers instincts. He is certainly one to keep an eye on.
Harry Amass
Harry Amass was only signed in the summer from Watford but arrived as one of England’s most exciting full-backs.
Amass opened his account for the club last month, scoring against Leeds United in the same game as Fitzgerald’s wonder goal.
He is very young but he has the qualities which could again translate well to Ten Hag’s philosophy. Potentially the long-term Luke Shaw replacement, he is another who has everything he needs to make it.
Finley McAllister
Fifth on the list is Manchester United fan Finley McAllister who as we saw against Everton is a regular attendee at away fixtures.
McAllister is another midfielder and is valued among England’s best in the age bracket with his call-up to the U17 squad for the World Cup a clear indicator.
Recently signing his professional contract, he is another one many believe is destined to become a first-team player eventually.
Jack Fletcher
The sixth and last is one of Darren Fletcher’s two sons at the club, Jack. Jack joined the club during the summer from Man City along with his brother Tyler.
Since then both have impressed but it is Jack who Ten Hag has taken notice of already, including him in first team training earlier this week.
Don’t be surprised to see him as a debutant in the next year or so he is thought of exceptionally highly.
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