Another one of Manchester United’s top academy prospects is taking his chance to shine.
When Manchester United appointed Ruben Amorim, there was optimism among fans, and one of the reasons was his strong youth record at Sporting.
Amorim’s commitment to youth at United left a lot to be desired, with his treatment of Kobbie Mainoo coming under close scrutiny.
Mainoo did not start a single Premier League game under Amorim this season, and since his sacking he has played in all four – and United have won all four.
Another less high-profile snub is also coming into focus now the mid-season deadline has passed.
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James Scanlon overlooked under Ruben Amorim
One of the most promising players in Manchester United’s academy over the past three seasons has been James Scanlon.
Scanlon is an attacking midfielder who joined United in 2021, and hit headlines by making his international debut for Gibraltar at just 17.
The teenager was included on the 2024 pre-season tour, although Erik ten Hag bizarrely played him at right-back.
Scanlon had a prolific 2024/25 season, netting 23 goals in all competitions for the under-18s and under-21s.
Ruben Amorim did include him on the bench for one Europa League fixture last season, but that was as close as he came.
Amorim did not even include Scanlon on the club’s 2025 summer tour of the USA despite his excellent academy season and increasing international experience.
Scanlon was denied a loan and did not get a call into the matchday squad, left with the under-21s.`
He scored a hat-trick in late January in a win over Amorim’s former club Sporting at under-21 level, before clinching a loan move to Swindon.
Should Manchester United have sacked Ruben Amorim earlier this season?
Could we really have been title contenders?
James Scanlon taking loan chance
James Scanlon was sent on loan to Swindon Town at the recent deadline, and he has already made a big impression.
He made an impressive debut from the bench for Ian Holloway’s side in midweek, before being called into the starting line-up at the weekend.
Scanlon took only 23 minutes to score on his first ever competitive club start, showing the eye for goal that has been so noticeable at club level.
The 19-year-old is on a mission to show that his talent deserves a platform, and that Ruben Amorim was wrong not to give him a look-in.
If he can keep up his form, there is every chance he will get a proper chance in pre-season 2026.
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