Manchester United have always had a rich tradition and history when it comes to giving youth a chance. That is a mantra that Jose Mourinho has been keen to carry on, and it was evident in the final game of the Premier League season as plenty got their opportunity to impress.
With that in mind, we’ve decided to talk about a trio of players who should be looking to follow in the footsteps of Marcus Rashford and Jesse Lingard. Perhaps pre-season will be their best chance to impress, and following on from that, I’d point to the EFL Cup as a potential aim to earn minutes.
Timothy Fosu-Mensah
During the second-half of Louis van Gaal’s tenure as manager, the Dutchman was an absolute tank. He shown maturity way beyond his years as both a fullback and a centre-half, but this season he has found his minutes limited.
His talent is undeniable though, and he has kept working hard in training which is a credit to him. Mourinho seemingly likes him as a player as more often than not he found himself within the matchday squad, including having a place on the bench for the Europa League final.
I see his future as a centre-back. I just hope that the gaffer puts more trust in him because he has already proven his capabilities in the Premier League. If Jose doesn’t plan on using him, then a loan move is absolutely required.
Demetri Mitchell
During United’s final game of the season, Jose Mourinho played a whole host of youngsters. Josh Harrop stole the headlines thanks to his brilliant goal, but my favourite debutant on the day was Demetri Mitchell.
The young left-back played like the man we all thought Luke Shaw would be. He was quick, tough in the tackle, on the front foot and he played the ball out brilliantly. At only 20, he obviously has an awful lot of developing to do but he has made an excellent start to his professional life as a footballer.
On top of that, he is Mancunian through and through and there is absolutely nothing better than watching a boyhood fan succeed at the highest of stages. In terms of competition, he has the aforementioned Shaw, Ashley Young and Matteo Darmian – but I genuinely believe he is good enough to beat them all out.
Andreas Pereira
One of the biggest beneficiaries of the loan system this season. The Brazilian found himself out in Spain playing for Granada. Although his team got relegated, this man was their shining star and bright spark.
He acquitted himself brilliantly for the most part and it was great to see him playing so well alongside a very average squad that was assembled around him.
Pereira is now back at Manchester United, and although we have an abundance of talent in his preferred position, I would like to see him get given his chance as nobody has seemingly nailed that #10 spot down.
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