Shola Shoretire scores first PAOK goal ahead of Man Utd return in Europa League, Kobbie Mainoo responds

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Manchester United’s academy batch continues to shine, even the ones who had to move away to do so, with Shole Shoretire being the latest one.

Shola Shoretire was widely regarded as one of the best academy prospects during his time at the club but for one reason or another, never broke through.

After spending some time on loan in the English football league and impressing for United’s U21 and U18 sides, he eventually sought a permanent home this summer.

Upon the expiry of his contract, Shoretire joined Greek side PAOK, making it three ex-United players to move there in the summer, with Anthony Martial and Facundo Pellistri as the other two.

Now, ahead of an emotional return to Old Trafford in the Europa League, Shoretire has picked up form.

Shola Shoretire’s first goal for PAOK

Since joining the club in the summer, Shoretire has mainly been a player who comes off the bench as he tries to get used to playing senior football regularly.

He has made five league appearances so far, playing just 19% of the available minutes, failing to register a goal or an assist in that time.

Shoretire was given a chance in PAOK’s first cup game of the season, starting the game and he didn’t disappoint, getting off the mark for his new club.

PAOK won 3-0 against Egaleo in the first leg of the round-of-16 fixture and Shoretire’s strike in the 39th minute gave them a two-goal lead.

He returns to the club that made him on November 7 in the Europa League fixture in what is sure to be an emotional reunion with many players and coaches.

Picking up form and confidence at just the right time, United will have to be wary of Shoretire as they seek their first win in the Europa League this season.

The likes of Kobbie Mainoo, who played with Shoretire in the youth ranks, will be missing but the midfielder was extremely happy with Shoretire finding his feet in senior football.

Kobbie Mainoo and more respond to Shola Shoretire

After getting off the mark for his new club, Shoretire went on Instagram and penned a message to his fans and supporters.

“Back to winning ways! Also a proud moment to score my first goal for this club PAOK,” he wrote. The Man Utd factor was strong in the responses.

Kobbie Mainoo responded with a heart emoji, while Charlie McNeil and Ethan Ennis reacted with two fire emojis each.

Teden Mengi, who travelled a similar path of leaving United to now establish himself, said, “Love it son” with a clapping emoji.

Mason Greenwood also reacted with a clapping emoji while Joe Hugill, on loan at Wigan, said, “Yeezurrrr”.

Alvaro Fernandez, linked to Man Utd homecoming, replied with three fire emojis and Ethan Wheatley, who made his first senior appearance of the season vs Leicester reacted with a heart-eye emoji.

Shoretire’s PAOK play Lamia next on November 3 before the fateful game at Old Trafford on November 7.