Manchester United have welcomed 10 new scholars to their ranks this week - and many are already being tipped for great things. The fresh batch of first-year scholars will be aiming to climb the ladder in an academy renowned for its exceptional talent pool.
Following their recent successes, including clinching the Premier League North title, Premier League Cup and Premier League national title, United's Under-18s are currently among the best in the country. They will be hoping to follow the footsteps of Kobbie Mainoo, who not only broke into Erik ten Hag's starting eleven but also managed to slide himself into Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024.
Considering United's outstanding reputation for developing young talent, many of the youngsters will be plotting a similar path to domestic and international success.
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Among the new recruits is Bendito Mantato, who has been likened to Bukayo Saka and was rumoured to be on the move away from Old Trafford. However, United have managed to secure the 16-year-old winger on a pre-professional contract.
Another notable name is Amir Ibragimov, who has been regularly representing England's U16 side and drawing comparisons to United legend Wayne Rooney. Dante Plunkett, who joined from Aston Villa's academy earlier this year, is another scholar who made his debut for the U18s in February after initially joining on trial.
Albert Mills, Daniel Armer and Godwill Kukonki are also among the defenders who have secured scholarships for the upcoming season.
Jim Thwaites, who scored the winning goal against Derby County, earning him the club's U16 and U18 goals of the season, is joined by midfielder James Bailey on the list.
Two promising young goalkeepers, Cameron Byrne-Hughes and Fred Heath, have also been awarded scholarships, with hopes of featuring for United's youth teams. With Mainoo and the likes of Alejandro Garnacho now showcasing their talent on the grand stage at Euro 2024 and the Copa America respectively, these new scholars will be aspiring to reach similar heights in their careers.
The full roster of United's first-year scholars for the 2024/25 season includes: Daniel Armer (Defender), James Bailey (Midfielder), Cameron Byrne-Hughes (Goalkeeper), Frederick Heath (Goalkeeper), Amir Ibragimov (Forward), Godwill Kukonki (Defender), Bendito Mantato (Forward), Albert Mills (Defender), Dante Plunkett (Defender) and Jim Thwaites (Midfielder).
