Marc Jurado was named in the Manchester United matchday squad for the game at Nottingham Forest.
An injury crisis can also create opportunities. Erik ten Hag invited the under-21 squad to train with the first team on Friday to run the rule over his options.
Centre-back Bjorn Hardley was among those involved, but it was Zidane Iqbal, Brandon Williams and Marc Jurado who got the nod to feature on United’s bench at Forest.
It was Jurado’s first ever time in a matchday squad and he is intent that it is not the last.
Marc Jurado sends message
Marc Jurado was part of the Manchester United FA Youth Cup winning side, playing every match on route to winning the trophy.
Manchester United signed Jurado from Barcelona in 2020 and he has been a consistent performer in the academy, stepping up as an under-21s regular.
This season he has added goals to his game, scoring three goals and providing two assists from right-back.
He sent a message after his squad involvement against Forest, commenting: “It will come”, in reference to his competitive debut.
Jurado did feature under Erik ten Hag in the winter friendly matches and impressed in his brief appearance, providing an assist for Kobbie Mainoo to score against Cadiz.
An appearance this season is not out of the question if injuries persist, but at present there is good cover at right-back with both Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot both fit.
Jurado may have to wait until pre-season, and could follow Alvaro Fernandez’s path to a loan move. He is ready for a new test next season.
Marc Jurado: Future Manchester United star
- Barcelona wanted to keep him
Jurado rejected Barcelona’s offer to stay and has decided to pursue a career with Manchester United, just like Gerard Pique once did.
- Tough path ahead
Jurado is 19-years-old and plays at right-back. There are a number of players ahead of him at United in this role, and this means he will have to work extra hard to make a first team impact.
- Record holder
Jurado holds the record for the fastest ever goal scored in Barcelona’s academy. While playing for the under-10s he netted a goal after just five seconds.
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