Manchester United are set to begin the 2024/25 UEFA Youth League campaign on Wednesday evening, and we could see a truly spectacular team.
This season’s edition of the UEFA Youth League kicks off for Manchester United on Wednesday against Lithuanian side Zalgiris.
The tournament is effectively U19’s however often features standout players from lower age categories, of which United have plenty.
It is the perfect chance for Ineos to show the rest of Europe the dynasty which is being built at Carrington – with a strong squad expected.
The potential starting line-up which could be fielded is simply incredible and could dominate the tournament right through to the latter stages.
How could Manchester United U19s line-up vs Zalgiris
Whoever is picking the United U19 team to start the tournament has an unenviable job, as there are simply too many good players to pick from.
With the U18s on fire, we expect a handful to be drafted into European competition here.
In this starting line-up, we see several immense talents left out – showing the true depth United have at the academy level. If even half make it at the club we could be talking about the class of 2024 or 2025 for years to come.
But what is the strongest line-up possible for the United academy to name?
Will Murdock – goalkeeper
In goal, there will be a chance for either Will Murdock or Cameron Byrne-Hughes, with Elyh Harrison on loan at Chester. Being the more senior of the two though, we expect Murdock will be opted for.
Habeeb Ogunneye – right-back
Moving into the defence, the options are deep with Habeeb Ogunneye and the new Aussie arrival James Overy likely to fight it out for the right-back spot – although Ogunneye is likely to start the tournament at least.
Louis Jackson – centre-back
Centrally, Louis Jackson is probably a safe bet to be named, with the 18-year-old being key to last year’s U18 treble – Jackson has also featured in first-team squads.
Godwill Kukonki – centre-back
Alongside Jackson, we’d ideally like to see exciting talent Godwill Kukonki given a chance at this level. Having made his U21 debut already, Kukonki is a top defensive prospect, so seeing him here would be exciting.
Harry Amass – left-back
Meanwhile, the left-back position is easier to choose with Harry Amass likely to play unless he is Istanbul-bound with the first team.
Jacob Devaney – midfield
Moving into the midfield there are even more excellent options, but arguably is Jacob Devaney who is showing early signs of being a top prospect.
Sekou Kone – midfield
The UEFA Youth League could also present a potential debut for Sekou Kone after he was in first-team training. The Malian midfielder is a very exciting talent and one we are desperate to see in action.
Jack Fletcher – attacking midfield
Ahead of these two, Jack Fletcher is probably the best natural No.10 who is likely to be in the squad, days after he was on the bench for Erik ten Hag.
Shea Lacey – right wing
The wing positions are also highly debatable for United, with Shea Lacey and Bendito Mantato fighting it out on the right. However, when fit, Lacey should definitely be starting.
James Scanlon – left wing
On the left, chances are Gibraltar international James Scanlon will feature – although Samuel Lusale will be looking to force himself into the team, as will Amir Ibragimov who might also challenge Fletcher.
Gabriele Biancheri – striker
Finally, as a striker it would be foolish to start anyone but Gabriele Biancheri with the Welsh wonderkid in excellent form with 12 goals this season already.
Chido Obi-Martin and Ethan Wheatley will have something to say about this though with striking competition in the academy superb.
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