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Barcelona wonderkid Ilaix Moriba was JUST two when Lionel Messi won his first LaLiga title, now he’s playing with him
by Philippa Kaur 4 March 2021, 14:03
IT’LL be the way out of financial ruin for Barcelona – concentrating on promoting talent from their famed La Masia academy.
Prospects in the past have included Lionel Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Busquets.
Ilaix Moriba was just two when Lionel Messi won his first LaLiga title, now he’s playing alongside himCredit: Instagram @ilaixmk
Moriba grabs a photo opportunity with MessiCredit: Instagram @ilaixmk
While Ansu Fati has shown in the past year he’s ready to take on Messi’s mantle, should the Argentine legend leave for pastures new.
But in the last month a new talent has emerged – a powerful 6ft 1in midfielder, aged 18, who is being gradually blooded by Ronald Koeman into the first team set-up.
In a LaLiga game against Sevilla, Spain U18 international Ilaix Moriba provided a sumptuous assist for Messi in a 2-0 win – and had Barça supporters looking forward to the future.
Incredibly, even though they’re now team mates – when Messi picked up his first La Liga title in 2005 Moribe was just a two-year-old toddler growing up in Guinea.
HE DESTROYED REAL MADRID
It was in 2018, as a 15-year-old, that Barcelona’s best-kept secret began to get talked about.
In a game against Real Madrid’s U19 side he made a mockery of players who were much more senior than him.
The star of a 5-0 rout of Barcelona’s biggest rivals, Moriba netted an astonishing hat-trick.
He scored a stunning goal from the halfway line straight from a kick off, a 25-yard screamer and a half-volley.
Midfield talent Moriba has broken into Barcelona’s first team in the past monthCredit: Getty Images – Getty
£86M RELEASE CLAUSE
Knowing they have a gem on their hands, Barcelona wasted no time in securing the precious talent on a long-term contract.
With his contract expiring in 2019, and the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Juventus circling, the Catalans tied Moriba down to a record deal reportedly worth around £1.7million-per-year.
Barcelona also protected their investment by inserting a staggering buyout clause in his agreement.
Should anyone want to buy him, they will have to pay a fee of £86million.
Standing at 6ft 1in Moriba, 18, is a commanding presence on the pitchCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Moriba is renowned for his brilliant dribbling skillsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
COMPARISONS TO POGBA
Blessed with skill and physicality, it’s been said Moriba has the assets needed to conquer the English game.
While he’s also been compared to France World Cup winner, Paul Pogba.
“He’s physically very strong, but he’s also a very intelligent player,” ex-Barcelona youth coach Denis Silva Puig told Bleacher Report.
“Most people don’t appreciate this. Here he’s called the ‘Pogba of Barca’ because he’s like a young Pogba, but also he is very, very intelligent—and that is his big potential. He is a top player, no doubt.
Moriba has been capped at U18 level for SpainCredit: Getty Images – Getty
The future of Barcelona’s midfield looks promising with the addition of the talented MoribaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“He’s a little bit, maybe modern—in the English football kind of sense. It’s good to have him at Barca.
“The academy can’t be all about the Riqui [Puig]s or the Monchus—small players with a lot of talent.
“Football trends change every year, every month, but Ilaix is here not because he is tall or strong, but because he is very good in every facet of the game.”
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Ex-Chelsea kid Bright Arrey-Mbi, 17, signed for Bayern Munich with Musiala, and has already debuted in Champions League
by Philippa Kaur 26 February 2021, 06:00
IT often takes players time to settle at their new clubs – especially overseas.
But luckily for Bayern Munich, the two wonderkids they signed from Chelsea in 2019 as 16-year-old’s have hit the ground running.
Bright Arrey-Mbi, 17, has impressed coaches at Bayern MunichCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Arrey-Mbi was originally part of Chelsea’s famed academy before moving to Germany in 2019Credit: Instagram @brightakwo5
Jamal Musiala has exploded onto the scene with the Bavarians – already scoring three times for last season’s Champions League winners and declaring his international allegiance to Germany, after a tug-of-war with England.
But German-born Bright Arrey-Mbi, who arrived with Musiala, hasn’t gone under the radar – impressing his coaches as he’s risen through the ranks.
Nicknamed ‘The Beast’, the 17-year-old centre back has already appeared in Bayern’s star-studded first team – playing in a Champions League game against Atletico Madrid.
And he had established stars of the Bundesliga giants purring when he first arrived at the club.
SEAL OF APPROVAL
Last season Bayern flew to Qatar for a mid-season training camp, with Arrey-Mbi in tow.
He was the youngest player in the group, but you wouldn’t have thought it.
The 6ft 1in defender, who briefly trained with Norwich City before moving to Chelsea, acquitted himself brilliantly in front of boss Hansi Flick, as well as his new first-team team-mates.
‘The Beast’, as Arrey-Mbi, is nicknamed closes down Corentin Tolisso during a first team training sessionCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Joshua Kimmich noticed Arrey-Mbi’s calmness on the ball during a training sessionCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Arrey-Mbi poses with Robert Lewandowski and the Champions League trophyCredit: Instagram @brightakwo5
“Bright is already a beast,” German international Joshua Kimmich revealed.
“You can tell that he uses every muscle on his body. It surprised me in training that he’s not shy at all.
“He really goes into challenges and has a certain calmness on the ball.”
While David Alaba added: “His athleticism and his understanding of the game are already very far ahead.”
IMPRESSIVE START
Arrey-Mbi was handed his opportunity to train in Doha because of his performances at Under-19 level.
He led the youth side to the top of the table before the season was cancelled after the coronavirus pandemic.
In his first 14 starts, Bayern’s U19 team kept six clean sheets, while Arrey-Mbi also proved to be a threat at the other end contributing two goals.
His athleticism is one of 6ft 1in Arrey-Mbi’s strengthsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Since signing for Bayern Munich, Arrey-Mbi has risen through the ranksCredit: Instagram @brightakwo5
The youngster also starred in the Uefa Youth League – with Arrey-Mbi ensuring his side kept four clean sheets from their six unbeaten group games.
Ahead of the 2020-21 season, he was promoted to the reserve squad and invited to train with the first team, where he proved he was ready for his chance.
DREAM DEBUT
With Bayern Munich already qualified as group winners, the pressure was off for the trip to Atletico Madrid.
So Flick rested a lot of his top stars to give the stars of tomorrow their opportunity.
Arrey-Mbi got a start – playing against Portuguese sensation Joao Felix. And even though the forward scored, Arrey-Mbi impressed as the Germans drew 1-1 in Spain.
Bayern’s Spanish star Javi Martinez was full of praise for both Arrey-Mbi and Musiala – calling them the future of the club.
Arrey-Mbi has been capped by Germany at U17 levelCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Already, Arrey-Mbi has been tipped to be one of the future stars of Bayern MunichCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“They were born in 2003 – that’s almost when I started to play in the first division,” he said, via Uefa.com.
“But Bayern is a club that builds from the bottom with the youth players. The future is bright. When young players train with us, they play very well.
“They are the future of the club.”
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Tottenham wonderkid Dane Scarlett, 16, is a ‘diamond’ says Mourinho and is Spurs’ youngest ever debutant
by Philippa Kaur 25 February 2021, 09:10
QUALITY strikers are flying out the Academy at Spurs.
Harry Kane is, obviously, the most famous and most successful of recent years.
Dane Scarlett impressed in his came against WolfsbergerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And there’s a huge buzz about Ireland international Troy Parrott, 18, who will be looking to show his worth this season on-loan at Millwall.
But the latest forward to wow North London fans be given his opportunity is Dane Scarlett.
It’s no wonder boss Jose Mourinho has been raving about him after his brilliant cameo against Wolfsberger.
Scarlett provided his first assist in Spurs colours, leaving his boss amazed and calling the talent “a diamond”.
“He is a diamond, a kid with incredible potential,” The Special One told BT Sport.
He has worked many times with the first team and that gives him a different personality. He is still 16, 17 soon [in March] and I believe next season he will be a first-team squad player because he has a lot of talent.
“He is going to be a fantastic player and I hope everything around him goes well. He is a striker, a number nine, I have been playing him from the sides similar to Marcus Rashford and he is very clever.”
The promising youngster made history in the Europa League earlier this season when he appeared against Ludogorets.
Scarlett became the youngest ever player to appear for Tottenham when he came against LudogoretsCredit: EPA
The Spurs ace’s rapid progress is even more impressive given he suffered a serious knee injury last seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
At 16 years 247 days old he became the youngest Spurs player to appear in a competitive game – breaking a record set by John Bostock in 2008.
However, it was an opportunity that looked far away last season when he suffered a serious knee injury.
A SERIOUS BLOW
Capped by England at U16 level, Scarlett was promoted to the Spurs U18 side at the beginning of last season.
He played four times, netting his first goal at that level in October, 2019 against Aston Villa.
But a month later, his season was ended by a serious knee injury in a game against Chelsea.
It left Scarlett on the sidelines for a year, but he didn’t let that setback curtail his progress.
A year ago sustaining a season ending Knee injury. To making my @SpursOfficial debut, also becoming the youngest ever Spurs player is a dream come true for me and my family. Thanks to everyone that’s supported this far. It was a shame I had to make my debut without you Spurs fans pic.twitter.com/xquGq2ueAh
— Dane Scarlett (@DScarlett09) November 27, 2020
Big things are expected of Scarlett at Spurs, who has shone at youth levelCredit: Twitter@DScarlett09
Scarlett’s appearance against Ludogorets broke John Bostock’s record of youngest ever Spurs star Credit: Rex Features
He worked hard to get back to full fitness, and this summer his patience and determination was rewarded in preseason when he trained with the first.
Scarlett appeared in friendly games against Ipswich Town and Reading at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
But it is in the U18’s he has been used to full effect – scoring a mega 10 goals in eight games so far.
PERFECT REWARD
After battling back from serious injury and showing his worth, Scarlett was rewarded with a place in the squad for Tottenham’s Europa League tie against Ludogorets.
But boss Jose Mourinho was unaware of the record the debutant was about to break when he ran onto the pitch for the final few moments of a game already won.
He just felt that the kid deserved it after a tough year in the game.
“I didn’t know that (he would be Tottenham’s youngest player),” Mourinho told Football.London.
“So when I played him I didn’t know he was the youngest one. It’s a good thing.
Jose Mourinho felt Scarlett deserved his chance in the Spurs first team after battling back from injuryCredit: EPA
This season Scarlett has impressed with Tottenham’s U18 team scoring 10 goals in eight gamesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Can Scarlett follow Harry Kane in becoming a Spurs regular from the Academy?Credit: Getty Images – Getty
“He had a good pre-season with us, it was a good experience for him at the age of 16 to have a pre-season with the first team.
“He played a few minutes in some of our pre-season matches. Of course, he went back to his [U18] team. He trains with them.
“Yesterday when I felt there was space for another young player in the squad, I didn’t decide by myself, I asked my football director and I asked the academy director and they contacted all the coaches. ‘Who deserves?’
“There are of course a few names, especially the U18s because they are doing so well.
“They gave me his name and because I knew him already I thought if the opportunity would arise it would be a good chance for me and a good feeling for everyone in the academy.”
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Man Utd transfer target Benoit Badiashile is France wonderkid, once reprimanded by Thierry Henry for his bad manners
by Philippa Kaur 23 February 2021, 15:09
YOU always want to be on the good side of your manager.
But when French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile, 19, forgot his manners in front of former Monaco boss Thierry Henry, he was quickly reminded.
French wonderkid Benoit Badiashile was wanted by Man Utd last summer
But Badiashile once upset Thierry Henry when he forgot to tuck his chair in after a press conference
It all happened in December 2018 at a press conference ahead of Monaco’s must-win match against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Badiashile was sat alongside the Arsenal legend answering reporters’ questions, and when the pair finished they jumped up from their seats to leave the room.
However, poor Benoit forgot to tuck his chair in and Henry glared at him like a naughty schoolboy until the youngster returned to the table to correct his mistake.
Since then, Badiashile has risen through the ranks – impressing this campaign under Niko Kovac as Monaco remain in contention for Ligue 1.
BLOODED BY HENRY
Despite infuriating his ex-manager, Badiashile was bled into the team by Henry who quickly realised the towering defender’s qualities.
This season Badiashile has become a key part of Monaco’s defence as they chase the Ligue 1 titleCredit: AFP or licensors
The 6ft 4in France under-21 international went on to play 26 times in all competitions for the Ligue 1 side as he made his breakthrough in the first team in his debut season.
And when Henry was fired from the Stade Louis II, experienced manager Leonardo Jardim continued to integrate the prodigy into his side – installing a greater defensive discipline into Badiashile, although his appearances were more limited.
But this season Badiashile has shone under Kovac.
BROTHERS IN ARMS
Born in France, and raised by Congolese parents – Badiashile dreamed of playing professional football.
But it was his elder goalkeeping brother who made the grade first.
Henry gave Badiashile his debut for MonacoCredit: AFP or licensors
Loic Badiashile, 23, is also highly thought of at Monaco – and made his first team debut in a UEFA Champions League qualifier against Fenerbache in 2016.
It ended in a disappointing 2-1 loss, and it seems that bad results on their debuts runs in the Badiashile family.
When Benoit was thrown into the side against PSG, the Red and Whites were taught a lesson.
He was helpless as Neymar, Kylian Mbappe and former striker Edinson Cavani put Monaco to the sword, with the Uruguayan netting a hat-trick.
CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY
It was a rude awakening for the teen sensation, but it didn’t destroy his confidence and he showed incredible mental strength to shrug that disappointment off.
That courageous spirit is just one of Badiashile’s many qualities that have caught the eye of Europe’s top club, including Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
For his strong frame, his pace and ability to read the game and snuff out danger before it arrives is reminiscent of Napoli star Kalidou Koulibaly,
A powerhouse at the back, he’s tough to get past, but as with most young defenders positionally he can drift away from his man.
That said, coaches for the French national team believe he’s the next big thing and have high hopes for Badiashile.
Badiashile is strong, athletic and reads the game wellCredit: Getty – Contributor
A France under-21 international, Badiashile is expected to become a full internationalCredit: Instagram
Badiashile could be a big hit in the Premier League if Ole Gunnar Solskjaer decides to sign him from FranceCredit: Instagram
He’s been capped at under-16 level – all the way through to the under-21’s for France – and is expected to become a full international in time.
Benoit revealed that Manchester United DID bid for him last summer, however he snubbed a £22million move.
Don’t bet against Ole Gunnar Solskjaer returning for him this summer.
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Man Utd wonderkid Shola Shoretire, 17, makes long-awaited debut vs Newcastle after snubbing Barcelona and Juventus moves
by Philippa Kaur 21 February 2021, 20:15
THE buzz around Shola Shoretire extended far beyond Old Trafford.
The Manchester United wonderkid, 17, was being courted by the likes of European giants Barcelona and Juventus before he signed his first professional deal with the Red Devils recently.
Shola Shoretire replaced Marcus Rashford for his debutCredit: PA:Press Association
Shola Shoretire came on as a sub against NewcastleCredit: PA:Press Association
Mason Greenwood warming up with Shola ShoretireCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer with Shola ShoretireCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire was then fast-tracked to the first team and added to the club’s Europa League squad ahead of their tie against Spanish side Real Sociedad.
He sat on the bench against Sociedad in Europe but his patience prevailed as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer brought him on against Newcastle in the league, handing the youngest his pro debut.
Shoretire replaced Marcus Rashford with just a minute to go but got a sense of the big-time at Old Trafford.
His rapid ascension through the youth ranks has United big-wigs purring that the Nigerian-born star could be the answer to the club’s problems out wide after missing out on Jadon Sancho.
The skilful attacker’s game has also been compared to African football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, who graced Premier League pitches with Bolton Wanderers in the early 2000s.
WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT?
The diminutive teen, comfortable with both feet, can play out wide and through the middle.
It’s testament to his ability that United were already confident he has the ability to succeed at the highest level by eyeing him for a deal before he turned 17.
Shoretire, pronounced Shor-ay-ti-reh, joined Manchester United’s youth set up at the age of nine from Newcastle and has continued to blossom.
In last season’s FA Youth Cup, he fired United into the semi-final scoring at Old Trafford in the 2-1 defeat of Wigan Athletic.
Incredibly, earlier that day he was studying for his GCSEs at school.
“He was at school today, all day! Then he came over to Old Trafford to play,” Under-18 coach Neil Ryan revealed.
“It’s incredible really. Different day for him compared to other players.”
First team star Aaron Wan-Bissaka puts Shoretire through his paces ahead of the Europa League tie against Real SociedadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Starlet Shoretire has been added to Man Utds Europa League squadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire is one of a number of promising United youngsters coming through the ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Blessed with quick feet, Shoretire has been likened to Jay-Jay OkochaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
UEFA YOUTH LEAGUE HISTORY
Shoretire appeared at the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland at the age of 13 in 2017. And in 2019 he made history.
Aged just 14 years and 314 days he came on as a sub in United’s 2-1 win over Valencia, and became the youngest player to appear in the UEFA Youth League – a competition reserved for Under-19 teams.
“We want to keep them humble, hard-working,” Ryan explained.
“It’s not just the coaching staff who do that, there are a number of staff throughout the academy, right throughout the place, feeding the same messages. It’s what we pride ourselves on.
“When you see the professionalism of the likes of Marcus Rashford, he’s the shining example. Scott McTominay, so on. These boys are products of the academy and the staff who work with them. They are our examples.
“Good players can enjoy the big stage. [Shoretire] is a really exciting player. He’s evolving and developing, can play a number of different positions, he showed a great maturity I thought.”
In 2019 Shoretire made history as the youngest ever Uefa Youth League playerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire was born in NigeriaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire celebrates scoring at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup against WiganCredit: Getty Images – Getty
NIGERIA OR ENGLAND?
With the stage set, Shoretire has joined first teamers Rashford and McTominay in training at Carrington ahead of the Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad.
Should he grasp his opportunity, like fellow youngster Mason Greenwood has, international honours will surely come to.
But a tug-of-war between Nigeria and England will ensure for which country he represents.
Although he was born in Africa, Shoretire has been invited to join England’s youth set-up in the past.
At the age of 17, with the world at its feet, decisions on who he could play for can wait for now. His first step is to conquer United. More
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Man Utd starlet Shola Shoretire, 17, snubbed Barcelona and Juventus to sign deal and was added to Europa League squad
by Philippa Kaur 18 February 2021, 10:37
THE buzz around Shola Shoretire extended far beyond Old Trafford.
The Manchester United wonderkid, 17, was being courted by the likes of European giants Barcelona and Juventus before he signed his first professional deal with the Red Devils recently.
Shola Shoretire has signed a professional deal with Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
First team star Aaron Wan-Bissaka puts Shoretire through his paces ahead of the Europa League tie against Real SociedadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And now, Shoretire has been fast-tracked to the first team and added to the club’s Europa League squad ahead of their tie against Spanish side Real Sociedad.
His rapid ascension through the youth ranks has Old Trafford big-wigs purring that the Nigerian-born star could be the answer to the club’s problems out wide after missing out on Jadon Sancho.
The skilful attacker’s game has also been compared to African football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, who graced Premier League pitches with Bolton Wanderers in the early 2000s.
WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT?
The diminutive teen, comfortable with both feet, can play out wide and through the middle.
It’s testament to his ability that United were already confident he has the ability to succeed at the highest level by eyeing him for a deal before he turned 17.
Shoretire, pronounced Shor-ay-ti-reh, joined Manchester United’s youth set up at the age of nine from Newcastle and has continued to blossom.
In last season’s FA Youth Cup, he fired United into the semi-final scoring at Old Trafford in the 2-1 defeat of Wigan Athletic.
Incredibly, earlier that day he was studying for his GCSEs at school.
“He was at school today, all day! Then he came over to Old Trafford to play,” Under-18 coach Neil Ryan revealed.
“It’s incredible really. Different day for him compared to other players.”
Starlet Shoretire has been added to Man Utds Europa League squadCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire is one of a number of promising United youngsters coming through the ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Blessed with quick feet, Shoretire has been likened to Jay-Jay OkochaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
UEFA YOUTH LEAGUE HISTORY
Shoretire appeared at the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland at the age of 13 in 2017. And in 2019 he made history.
Aged just 14 years and 314 days he came on as a sub in United’s 2-1 win over Valencia, and became the youngest player to appear in the UEFA Youth League – a competition reserved for Under-19 teams.
“We want to keep them humble, hard-working,” Ryan explained.
“It’s not just the coaching staff who do that, there are a number of staff throughout the academy, right throughout the place, feeding the same messages. It’s what we pride ourselves on.
“When you see the professionalism of the likes of Marcus Rashford, he’s the shining example. Scott McTominay, so on. These boys are products of the academy and the staff who work with them. They are our examples.
“Good players can enjoy the big stage. [Shoretire] is a really exciting player. He’s evolving and developing, can play a number of different positions, he showed a great maturity I thought.”
In 2019 Shoretire made history as the youngest ever Uefa Youth League playerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire was born in NigeriaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire celebrates scoring at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup against WiganCredit: Getty Images – Getty
NIGERIA OR ENGLAND?
With the stage set, Shoretire has joined first teamers Rashford and McTominay in training at Carrington ahead of the Europa League fixture against Real Sociedad.
Should he grasp his opportunity, like fellow youngster Mason Greenwood has, international honours will surely come to.
But a tug-of-war between Nigeria and England will ensure for which country he represents.
Although he was born in Africa, Shoretire has been invited to join England’s youth set-up in the past.
At the age of 17, with the world at its feet, decisions on who he could play for can wait for now. His first step is to conquer United. More
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Man Utd wonderkid Shola Shoretire, 17, is the ‘next Jadon Sancho’ and snubbed Barcelona and Juventus to sign new deal
by Philippa Kaur 4 February 2021, 09:24
THE buzz around Shola Shoretire extended far beyond Old Trafford.
The Manchester United wonderkid, 17, was being courted by the likes of European giants Barcelona and Juventus before he reportedly signed his first professional deal.
Shola Shoretire has reportedly signed a professional deal with Manchester UnitedCredit: Getty Images – Getty
There was talk last year that the promising youngster had already signed a pre-contract to turn professional with the club when he was just 16.
His rapid ascension through the youth ranks has got some Old Trafford big-wigs purring that the Nigerian-born star could be the answer to the club’s problems out wide after missing out on Jadon Sancho.
The skilful attacker’s game has also been compared to African football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, who graced Premier League pitches with Bolton Wanderers in the early 2000s.
WHAT’S ALL THE FUSS ABOUT?
The diminutive teen, comfortable with both feet, can play out wide and through the middle.
It’s testament to his ability that United are already confident he has the ability to succeed at the highest level by eyeing him for a deal before he turned 17.
Shoretire joined Manchester United’s youth set up at the age of 10 from Newcastle, and has blossomed since his arrival.
In last season’s FA Youth Cup, he fired United into the semi-final scoring at Old Trafford in the 2-1 defeat of Wigan Athletic.
Incredibly, earlier that day he was studying for his GCSEs at school.
“He was at school today, all day! Then he came over to Old Trafford to play,” Under-18 coach Neil Ryan revealed.
“It’s incredible really. Different day for him compared to other players.”
Shoretire is one of a number of promising United youngsters coming through the ranksCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Blessed with quick feet, Shoretire has been likened to Jay-Jay OkochaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
UEFA YOUTH LEAGUE HISTORY
Shoretire appeared at the Milk Cup in Northern Ireland at the age of 13 in 2017. And in 2019 he made history.
Aged just 14 years and 314 days he came on as a sub in United’s 2-1 win over Valencia, and became the youngest player to appear in the UEFA Youth League – a competition reserved for Under-19 teams.
“We want to keep them humble, hard-working,” Ryan explained.
“It’s not just the coaching staff who do that, there are a number of staff throughout the academy, right throughout the place, feeding the same messages. It’s what we pride ourselves on.
“When you see the professionalism of the likes of Marcus Rashford, he’s the shining example. Scott McTominay, so on. These boys are products of the academy and the staff who work with them. They are our examples.
“Good players can enjoy the big stage. [Shoretire] is a really exciting player. He’s evolving and developing, can play a number of different positions, he showed a great maturity I thought.”
In 2019 Shoretire made history as the youngest ever Uefa Youth League playerCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire was born in NigeriaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Shoretire celebrates scoring at Old Trafford in the FA Youth Cup against WiganCredit: Getty Images – Getty
NIGERIA OR ENGLAND?
With the stage set, Shoretire has a good chance in joining first teamers Rashford and McTominay if he plays his cards right – with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer alerted to his ability.
And then, surely, international honours could follow.
Although he was born in Africa, Shoretire has been invited to join England’s youth set-up in the past.
At the age of 16, with the world at its feet, decisions on who he could represent can wait for now.
But his first step is to conquer United.
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Man Utd kid Joe Hugill, 17, is 6ft 2in striker likened to Harry Kane and tipped by Solskjaer to play in the first team
by Philippa Kaur 2 February 2021, 15:13
MESSI, Salah, Maradona… Joe Hugill is in good company.
Like those star forwards, the Manchester United wonderkid is blessed with a magical left foot capable of hurting the opposition.
Joe Hugill scored the winning penalty – with his right foot – against Rochdale in the EFL TrophyCredit: Getty Images – Getty
It’s one reason why the Red Devils paid Sunderland £300,000 for the 17-year-old in 2020.
Hugill impressed earlier this season with United’s U21 team in an EFL Trophy win over Rochdale, coming close when he hit the woodwork and scoring the winning penalty (with his right foot) in a shootout after the sides drew 0-0 after 90 minutes.
The 6ft 2in star showed he is a capable target man – as comfortable receiving the ball on the deck as he is leaping for a long ball in the air.
And boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has now revealed Hugill is closer to a first team start than £36million signing Amad Diallo, after dazzling with four goals in a 6-3 win over Liverpool for the U23 side.
Asked whether Diallo was pushing for his chance, the Norwegian responded: “We’re going to give him the time to settle in.
“If we go from that game [vs Liverpool], I’d pick Joe Hugill.
“Four goals by Hugill, he’s a top striker as well, we’re looking forward to seeing his development.”
Here’s why the Old Trafford hierarchy moved quick to secure Hugill’s services, beating off competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal and Tottenham.
A TRUE MACKEM
Born and bred in Sunderland, Hugill spent his entire youth career at his boyhood club.
In recent years, the Black Cats have produced an incredible array of talent.
England goalie Jordan Pickford and Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson have risen to the top after coming through the ranks in the North East.
Josh Maja made waves in the Sunderland first team before he was signed by Bordeaux, where he thrived in France before joining Fulham in the most recent transfer window.
Hugill was born and bred in Sunderland
Last summer United paid Sunderland £300,000 for Hugill’s servicesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And Sam Greenwood earned rave reviews for Arsenal’s youth sides, after joining the Gunners in 2018 from the EFL League One side, and recently earned a £3million move to Leeds United.
Like those mentioned, Hugill shone at the ‘Academy of Light’, playing for both the U18s and U23s.
TECHNICALLY SOUND
First thing you’ll notice about Hugill’s game is his touch.
When the ball is played to feet it sticks, and he’s able to bring others into the game with his link-up play.
But there’s also goals to his game too.
On his Premier League 2 debut, with Sunderland rock bottom of the table, he scored twice against West Ham in a 4-2 defeat.
Hugill also scored a hat-trick against Shrewsbury Town in the FA Youth Cup – alerting scouts to his abilities.
At 6ft 2in Hugill offers a presence in the boxCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Hugill boasts similarities to Harry KaneCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Hugill impressed in the EFL Trophy win over RochdaleCredit: Rex Features
Although more slight in build, he has been compared to England hotshot Harry Kane in terms of his style of play.
He’s not blessed with pace, but he certainly knows where the goal is.
UNITED’S YOUTH PUSH
Hugill is seen as one for the future by Nicky Butt, now head of first team development, but was formerly overseeing their youth set-up.
The graduate of the ‘Class of ’92’ oversaw the arrivals of Tahith Chong, Charlie McCann, France youth stars Aliou Traore and Hannibal Mejbri, Arnau Puigmal, and Largie Ramazani in that role, until Nick Cox took over the reigns last year.
And with his recommendation, Hugill was added to that list of promising youngsters.
Perhaps the class of 2020 can be just as impressive as Beckham, the Nevilles, Scholes and Co in years to come.
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