The new era at Manchester United started with them clearing house in the form of some ruthless decisions at the end of last season.
Many players departed the club after the club opted to not renew their contracts and the departures were headlined by Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial.
Another one who left was record-breaking United wonderkid Shola Shoretire, who is now set to join Greece side PAOK.
It is a move not many would have expected to be in his future when he became United’s youngest-ever player to make a European appearance.
Ahead of the confirmation, he has penned a departing message to Man United and former teammates including Mason Greenwood and more have reacted-
Shola Shoretire‘s message, Mason Greenwood reacts
Shoretire came through the academy and when he debuted for the club at the age of just 16, the world was at his feet.
He came on for Wayne Rooney for his debut in what seemed like a symbolic “passing of the torch” moment for the youngster.
Circumstances made it so that he could never really kick on and cement a first-team place but United will forever be in his heart for giving him his footballing education.
He thanked the club on Instagram, saying he achieved his dream of playing for United but this step to leave is the right one at this time.
He wrote: “I joined Manchester United as an 11 year old boy with a dream of one day playing in the first team. I feel extremely proud to be able to say I have achieved that dream. To make it even more special, I was given the opportunity to represent this club in the premier league and in Europe.
“I’ll forever be grateful to the many players, staff members and supporters that have played a massive part in my journey to this point. From the first day I arrived at the cliff training ground I have felt at home and part of the MUFC family.
“It’s been a tough decision for me to leave somewhere that’s been all I’ve known for half of my life but i believe this is the right step for me.”
He ended by saying “Thank you” to the club and signed off with, “Once a red…”.
There was an outpour of reactions to the post. Shoretire and Greenwood were widely considered to be the cream of that batch of youngsters. The now-Marseille player replied with a clapping emoji while Teden Mengi, who found his way at Luton Town, said, “Go and get it lil pro, I’m proud of you”.
Ethan Ennis, Tyler Fletcher, Alvaro Fernandez, and Habeeb Ogunneye also reacted, among others, with all of them showing appreciation for the player.
Shoretire is a case study
Shoretire’s talent was never in any any doubt but the way his career has panned out mainly due to factors outside of his control is a case study in youth development.
His physical frame was a hindrance to his chances of getting a consistent senior run but the fact that United bought Bruno Fernandes to play in his best position, and the Portuguese hit the ground running from the first day ended his chances.
Something similar happened to Hannibal Mejbri too so it speaks to how many variables there are in youth development.
Erik ten Hag has handled the progression under him expertly and this season as well, Toby Collyer looks set to follow that path.
As for Shoretire, his talent and potential were never in doubt. Many have bet on themselves by leaving United and flourished elsewhere. He will aim to add his name to that list in Greece.
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