Manchester United academy product Scott McTominay has inked a new deal to keep him in Manchester until 2021, the club announced.
McTominay has been involved with United’s youth system since the age of five, and made his first team debut last season. He’s one of the team’s most promising prospects, and looks to continue his career with his childhood club.
“I have grown up at this great club and it has always been a big part of my life. I attended the club’s development centre in Preston from the age of five and have gone on to progress from there,” McTominay told Manchester United’s official website.
The midfielder is fresh off his debut in the Champions League on Wednesday, and has nothing but praise for Jose Mourinho for giving him the chance to play.
“To make my debut at the end of last season was a dream come true, and I would like to thank the manager for the faith that he has shown in me. I was absolutely delighted when the manager promoted me to the first-team squad and I am looking forward to continuing my journey with this fantastic team.”
McTominay is just one of many bright young players United have for the future, but the new contract is perhaps a signal of intent by Mourinho.
More from Red Devil Armada
- Aaron Wan Bissaka out for ‘several weeks’ with injury
- Manchester United break an unwanted record after Brighton loss
- Sofyan Amrabat set to miss game against Brighton
- Preview: Manchester United vs Brighton – What you need to know
- Jadon Sancho set to train away from first team squad
With speculation running rampant that Jose is seeking a shock reunion with Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil, it wouldn’t make sense to keep bringing up more and more attacking midfielders if they were only going to be buried on the bench.
The Lancaster-born player made his debut against Arsenal at the end of last season and — despite his age — has impressed in each opportunity he’s been given.
Mourinho, for one, is certainly happy McTominay has committed his future to the team.
“I am delighted Scott has signed a new contract, he is one of our young players that has gone from strength to strength. He made his Premier League debut at the end of last season and made his Champions League debut this season.
"“I had no hesitation in promoting Scott to the first-team squad last month as we have total belief in him.”"
Many United fans were worried that youth development would be stunted at the club with Mourinho at the helm, as he doesn’t have the best track record of player development. E.g. Romelu Lukaku.
But the Portuguese has had a change in philosophy. 19-year old Marcus Rashford clocked more game time than any other player last season.
Next: Gary Neville: Manchester United are title contenders once again
McTominay is just one of the many bright players United have coming up. Along with Andreas Pereira and Angel Gomes, the future for United’s midfield is bright. Let’s hope they all get their chance.