A former Manchester United academy graduate has just scored his first international goal for his country, here’s what happened.
In the summer of 2023, Erik ten Hag allowed several academy graduates who ultimately weren’t going to be good enough and so departed.
This saw Manchester United sell Anthony Elanga, Charlie Savage, Teden Mengi, Zidane Iqbal and Marc Jurado to free up academy roles for the next generation coming through.
This has seen several new stars emerge at Carrington, as the formerly young Reds make their names elsewhere.
Mengi has enjoyed success at Luton Town and looks likely to become a real solid footballer. Now, Iqbal has achieved a significant milestone.
Zidane Iqbal scores first goal for Iraq
Despite not making his mark at Utrecht just yet since his £850k move in 2023, Zidane Iqbal has just bagged his first goal on the international stage for Iraq.
He had made eight caps for his nation without scoring but that streak ended as he scored the fourth goal in a 5-0 thumping of the Philippines.
The goal saw him score on the half-volley after he was found making a delightful run in behind where he was found by his teammate.
It was a special finish and rounded off a special moment for the 20-year-old midfielder in his young career who will be hoping that it can inspire some confidence.
How has Iqbal been playing for Utrecht since leaving Manchester United?
Since leaving Old Trafford last summer, Iqbal hasn’t exactly lit the world alight as he’s only managed to start two Eredivisie games for Utrecht.
Nine total appearances have seen him rack up 224 minutes on the pitch with 69 of those minutes coming in March.
He has remained an excellent dribbler and passer, but it’s safe to say he’s still coming to terms with senior football, despite all of the promise he showed during Ten Hag’s first summer which had many calling him a Frenkie de Jong regen.
At just 20 it is easy to understand he has the abilities needed to come good, and likely will as Utrecht give him more and more minutes over the next few years.
it’s in United’s interests for him to thrive too, with a sell-on clause reportedly in play.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
