Manchester United’s midfield situation is still shaking itself out. Six young midfielders are battling for a spot.
Kobbie Mainoo, Bruno Fernandes, Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans, Mason Mount. Those are United’s first team midfield options for 2026/27.
Many expect United to sign one more midfielder.
But there is also a very intriguing battle among the academy talents who are fighting for Michael Carrick’s attention to earn a spot in the squad.
Even if United do sign another midfielder, there could still be room for an academy regular. With no new signings, perhaps two could be promoted.
So with one pre-season game down and five to go, here are our latest verdicts on what lies ahead for this talented group of six…
Tyler Fletcher
Tyler Fletcher captained United in the second half against Wrexham, a sign of trust from Carrick. He played really well and strengthened his case. It followed on from his recent stint in Scotland’s World Cup squad. He made his United debut at the end of last season.
If Carrick decides to go with another option, Tyler Fletcher could be sent out on loan, and there will be plenty of suitors after his recent international exploits which raised his profile.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR send out on loan
What are your expectations for Tyler Fletcher during the 2026/27 season?
Is he ready to contribute for Manchester United?
Jack Fletcher
Jack Fletcher made his debut last season and was selected to start with Mount and Santos against Wrexham, which certainly counts in his favour. Another element in Jack Fletcher’s armoury is his ability to play in a more forward role, while he has even covered at left-back in the academy.
Similar to his twin brother, Jack Fletcher will either be kept around as a squad player or sent out on loan to gain experience.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR send out on loan
Toby Collyer
It is make or break for Toby Collyer, now 22. He delivered a solid performance for United against Wrexham, but will need to show a little more over the coming games.
The club could fetch a fee for Collyer, so the decision will now be whether to keep him around or to cash in and move on.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR sell
Jacob Devaney
Jacob Devaney had to fill in at centre-back against Wrexham, which indicated he has others ahead of him in the queue. It was also a nod to his versatility. Michael Carrick was impressed and labelled his performance ‘commanding’.
Devaney should get an opportunity in midfield in the upcoming games. He has a chance to win Carrick over, but if there is not room for him this season, United could decide to send him on loan to continue his development.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR send out on loan
Dan Gore
Dan Gore is in a similar position to Toby Collyer. The 21-year-old has a couple of advantages. Firstly he had a strong loan last season, finally shaking off injury misfortune. Secondly he already has a connection with Kobbie Mainoo, winning the FA Youth Cup together.
Gore caught the eye against Wrexham and deserves a further look in upcoming matches. Whatever the outcome, a loan should be off the table. He either gets the first team nod, or United sell him and move on.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR sell
Jim Thwaites
Jim Thwaites could be the most exciting midfielder of the six, with his impressive set piece ability drawing comparisons to David Beckham. Despite travelling to Helsinki, Thwaites did not play in the opener, indicating he is down in the pecking order.
Thwaites did make the first team bench last season, and it’s likely United will keep him around in the academy even if he’s not deemed ready for a regular role straight away.
- Possibilities: Promote to first team OR keep in academy
Which Man Utd academy midfielder do you feel has the biggest case to be in Michael Carrick’s squad next season?
- Let us know who you think should be the midfielder who United promote?
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