Man United pick two starlets who can follow Kobbie Mainoo’s footsteps, first-team debut yet to come

Manchester United have identified two young prospects who could follow in the footsteps of Kobbie Mainoo and break into the first team. Mainoo, at just 19 years old, made his full Premier League debut for United in November against Everton and recently scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. His journey to becoming a key player for Erik ten Hag’s side has been remarkable.

Mainoo’s rise was slightly delayed due to an injury during pre-season against Real Madrid. However, once he was integrated into the team, his readiness and talent became evident. Throughout the season, Mainoo proved to be one of the most impressive players for United, solidifying his place in the squad.

Looking ahead, Manchester United are already planning for the next season, aiming to introduce more young talent into the first team. According to a report from The Telegraph, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has outlined new profit and sustainability rules (PSR) that will require the club’s manager to significantly reduce net spending and focus on developing youth players. Ratcliffe, along with his INEOS team, is currently evaluating Erik ten Hag’s position, and the manager will need to work within a constrained budget moving forward. This shift in strategy emphasizes the integration of young talent into the first team.

Among the exciting young talents being considered are Toby Collyer and Harry Amass. After the FA Cup final win against Manchester City, Ten Hag was seen engaging in a detailed conversation with Collyer, a 20-year-old who traveled with the squad. The England youth international is seen as having significant potential to break into the first team at Old Trafford. Collyer, who plays as a deep-lying midfielder, has been part of United’s Under-21 team since joining from Brighton in 2022.

Harry Amass, another highly regarded young player, also stands out. Despite turning just 17 in March, he appeared on the first-team bench seven times last season. Amass, a left-back, played a crucial role in the Under-18s’ treble-winning side last season, showcasing his abilities and promise.

Although neither Collyer nor Amass has yet made their first-team debut, they are expected to have opportunities during the upcoming pre-season tour. This period will be crucial for them and other academy talents at Carrington to impress the coaching staff and secure a place in the first-team squad.

The club’s focus on nurturing young players comes at a time of financial prudence, driven by Ratcliffe’s new rules. As Manchester United transitions into this new era, the emphasis on youth development could lead to the emergence of the next generation of stars, with Collyer and Amass at the forefront of this exciting prospect.