Manchester United’s youngsters have given Erik ten Hag plenty to think about ahead of his arrival – and they’ve every reason to be confident of getting their chance under the incoming manager.
Amid what has been a wretched season for the club’s senior players, United’s academy have provided them with a much-needed a bright spark. Last week’s FA Youth Cup victory – the Reds’ first in 11 years – has at least given supporters something to celebrate during a campaign most would otherwise prefer to forget.
Now with ten Hag soon to arrive in Manchester, all eyes will be on what the new boss will have in store during the summer. Amid the expected influx of new signings, there will be a few of the club’s youngsters hoping to stake their claim.
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With ten Hag in charge, they can be safe in the knowledge that they will be given that opportunity if they merit it. The 52-year-old’s commitment to youth has been evident throughout his time at Ajax, and none more so than in his final game in charge.
The Dutchman handed debuts to 21-year-old goalkeeper Jay Gorter and 20-year-old defender Anass Salah-Eddine in his last outing with the Amsterdam giants. That meant Ten Hag had handed debuts to 23 different academy players in total during his time at the club.
Speaking about Gorter’s debut, ten Hag told Ajax Showtime : “The fact that he is being picked indicates that we are very satisfied and that he has made a super development. Players don’t get chances, they have to earn them. He deserved it.”
Ten Hag’s stance will come as a major boost to United’s academy players, many of whom are already banging on the door of the first team. While the likes of Hannibal Mejbri and Alejandro Garnacho have been handed cameos this season, there are plenty of others vying for inclusion, with the likes of Shola Shoretire, Kobbie Mainoo and Alvaro Fernandez having impressed.
They will of course have to continue to impress ten Hag as he takes command this summer, with the incoming boss making it clear they still have to earn their chances. Should they remain on the same path though, the future could be bright for United’s youngsters.
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