Manchester United youngster Harley Emsden-James joined the Red Devils’ academy in 2025.
Along with strengthening the first team in the summer, Manchester United’s recruitment was also focused on replenishing the academy.
The move for Paraguayan wonderkid Diego Leon created the most headlines, with the player going on to make his international debut before playing for United’s first team.
A more low-key deal for Harley Emsden-James was also agreed. Technical director Jason Wilcox raided former club Southampton to sign the talented young centre-back.
Emsden-James stars for England under-17s
Harley Emsden-James was named in the England under-17s team to face USA in a friendly match in Dubai.
This is a separate squad to the England under-17s side representing the country at the FIFA World Cup currently.
Emsden-James, 16, started the game as England won the match 5-2, and played 89 minutes before being substituted.
The centre-back has only played 18 minutes for Manchester United’s under-18s side this season, so this was a great chance to get more minutes under his belt.
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What Nicky Butt said about United’s academy
Last month former Manchester United player and ex-academy chief Nicky Butt hit out at the club’s academy.
Butt said that despite the talent in the ranks, there were not enough Manchester United players representing England at youth level.
He said: “The reason why I don’t think there’s an improvement is when you look at the international teams 18 to 21, I think there are two in the whole lot. And that highlights how good other academies are.”
Emsden-James may be playing at under-17s, just below the level Butt describes, but he is on track to get there – along with Bendito Mantato, who is currently at the under-17s World Cup.
Loanee Harry Amass is currently in the England under-19s squad along with Jack Fletcher
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