Manchester United academy star James Scanlon scored a brace for Gibraltar in an international friendly against the British Virgin Islands.
While Manchester United will have a strong representation at the 2026 World Cup, many players won’t be going because their nation failed to qualify or, in Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw’s case, they weren’t selected.
International friendlies are taking place ahead of the World Cup, with two United players involved in the action on Wednesday night.
Patrick Dorgu started for Denmark against DR Congo, while James Scanlon impressed for Gibraltar against the British Virgin Islands.

Who has been Manchester United’s academy Player of the Season 2025/26?
We've collated a selection of the best performers across U18 and U21 football… Who has been best?
James Scanlon completes brace against British Virgin Islands
It was a night to remember for 19-year-old Scanlon.
Gibraltar beat the British Virgin Islands 4-0 at Europa Point Stadium, but not without the help of a player from United’s academy.
Scanlon, who joined Swindon Town on loan midway through the past season, has already established himself in the Gibraltar national team even though he has yet to make a competitive debut for United’s first team.
That won’t stop Scanlon from performing on the international stage, as he showed tonight in an international friendly.
Scanlon scored a brace against the British Virgin Islands, who are below Gibraltar in the FIFA world rankings.
The United youngster has now scored three goals for the Gibraltar national team, which is an impressive feat for a player his age.
It won’t be the last time he finds the back of the net for Gibraltar.
- ⚡️ NEWS IN BRIEF
- James Scanlon started for Gibraltar against the British Virgin Islands on Wednesday night
- The United youngster scored a brace
- Scanlon has now scored three goals for Gibraltar
Is Tyler Fletcher’s call-up for the World Cup good for his Man Utd career – or are you concerned it will negatively impact his pre-season opportunities?
What is your message for Tyler after his shock World Cup call?
James Scanlon looking to impress on pre-season
Scanlon will be hoping to make an impression on Michael Carrick and his coaches during the summer.
The young winger has already trained with United’s first team, but he will be hoping to have some involvement in the pre-season action this summer.
United won’t be leaving Europe for pre-season, giving fans across the continent a chance to see the players up close in their own countries.
Scanlon will be in action again on Saturday when Gibraltar take on the Cayman Islands.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox


