Manchester United youngster Malachi Sharpe could be set for a breakout year in 2024 after impressing in the latter stages of 2023.
When it comes to wingers, Manchester United has not had a lot of luck in the first team in recent years. Part of the problem has been the style of play, along with various other problems – see Jadon Sancho.
Malachi Sharpe is a potential solution to Manchester United’s recent drought of successful wingers, with the teenage talent playing the position just as fans want from a player in his position.
Sharpe is quick, direct, and has an eye for goal. He has been lighting it up for the under-18s in recent weeks, with a strong performance in a 5-1 win over Southampton a particular standout.
The 18-year-old missed the first part of 2023 with an injury. Now back to enjoying his football in United’s academy, he is making an impact, with three goals in six league appearances.
Sharpe also benefited from game time in the UEFA Youth League, and if he can stay fit, he looks primed for a big 2024.
Who is Malachi Sharpe?
Malachi Sharpe was one of three young players Manchester United signed from Derby County’s academy in 2021 along with James Scalon and Sekou Kaba.
He was just 15 at the time, and while he went straight into the club’s under-16 squad, he has since featured for the under-18s.
Sharpe is the first cousin of former Manchester United and England defender Viv Anderson, and had been at Derby since he was nine.
He made his debut for United’s under-18 side in August 2021, before getting on the scoresheet in a Premier League Cup clash with Birmingham, in which Alejandro Garnacho scored a hat-trick.
Malachi Sharpe background
He has been in-demand at youth level, called up to represent Scotland’s under-17 side, who he qualifies for through his grandmother.
Sharpe is also eligible to play international football for both England and Jamaica.
His dad Del Sharpe explained how Marcus Rashford is an inspiration to the young winger. He told Nottingham Sport: “His idols have been Cristiano Ronaldo, and more recently, Marcus Rashford.
“Marcus though, he’s done a lot for the community, and for children in general, and that really resonated with Malachi. That and Marcus sent a personal, welcome message, when Malachi signed for the club.”
Player profile
- Full name: Malachi Sharpe
- Nationality: Scottish
- Date of birth: 20 November 2006
- Age: 18
- Place and Country of birth: Nottingham, England
- Position: Winger
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