Kai Rooney brings excitement to Manchester United’s youth team (Image: Getty)
Manchester United have a rich history of promoting players from the academy to the first team. The Class of ’92 will forever remain the standard for the Reds to aspire to in their young players, but the golden generation has hardly existed in recent years.
That being said, we’ve still seen gems who have contributed to the top team come through the ranks. Koby Mainu has been outstanding in recent years, while Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad have all featured in United’s starting XI with varying degrees of success.
The relationship between the first team and the academy was strained following the appointment of Ruben Amorim, but the relationship has begun to mend under Michael Carrick. Once again, the club appears united in their approach to development, with a path from Carrington to Old Trafford now becoming a reality.
There are a number of impressive young players, but it is United’s attackers that are attracting particular attention. Even if you don’t follow the Academy regularly, you’ve probably heard the name JJ Gabriel. The 15-year-old has been featured in the highlights multiple times this season.
Despite being in his mid-teens, the forward has excelled in the Under-18 Premier League and FA Youth Cup. He has an impressive 21 goals in 24 appearances and plays with the grace of a more experienced professional. Gabriel has also been invited to first-team training sessions this season, an impressive feat for such a young player.
However, Gabriel was unable to play in the Premier League this season due to his age. The ban is due to be lifted in the summer and there are already hopes that he will be able to emulate Max Dorman’s success at Arsenal.
Gabriel’s talent has made Noah Ajayi a force to be reckoned with this season. However, he is also a player that the Reds value highly.
The 17-year-old German winger has scored a modest seven goals in 16 appearances this season, but he has hit his stride at the right time as United struggle towards the FA Youth Cup semi-finals. This tournament is a testing ground for young players, and Ajayi has proven himself to be more than capable.
He also has the physical presence better suited to senior football and is therefore closer to making the step up to the first team. His goal in the win against Sunderland was a testament to his potential, as he showed a keen awareness to break through the defense and bring the ball home.
JJ Gabriel is an extraordinary talent. (Image: Getty)
However, while Ajayi has steadily moved away from the spotlight, Kai Rooney is just 16 years old and will need to adjust to senior exposure.
Of course, his last name has led to this fame, but don’t be fooled. Rooney isn’t just living off his father’s legacy. The winger has been gradually exposed to the Under-18s this season, making his Old Trafford debut in the FA Youth Cup.
He scored his first goal for the Under-18s against Middlesbrough in August, and after a period of time away from the age group, he returned in February and recorded a goal and an assist in three games in the Under-18 Premier League. Sadly for Rooney, an injury ended his season early.
But those dreaming of another Rooney stealing United’s headlines in the future can take heart from his progress this term. All of this is incredibly positive for the Reds and should be encouraged for the future.
Continuing to sign players through the academy will allow the Reds to save money in the transfer market. Even if one of these players becomes a regular starter at United, investing in the academy will still be worthwhile.
