Manchester United have announced that academy product Angel Gomes has signed his first professional contract with the club.
Gomes, 17, became United’s youngest player to ever feature in a Premier League game last season. The England international has been touted as one of the future stars in football. Securing his name for the foreseeable future is a huge boost to the club.
Gomes, via United’s official site, spoke on his new contract.
"“Manchester United has always been a big part of my life. I have been with the club since the age of six and it was a proud moment for me when I made my first team debut.”"
Manchester United is apart of Gomes and he joins the ranks of other great academy products that looked to have success at Manchester United. Names like Scholes, Giggs, Beckham, and Neville all come to mind. While more recently, Marcus Rashford has been a pillar of the team since making his first-team debut in spring of 2016.
"“This club is renowned for giving home grown players opportunities to progress into the first team and that was a major factor in me signing my first professional contract at this great club,” added Gomes. “I am still young but am looking forward to continuing my development with the help of the coaching staff and I will take every opportunity that comes my way.”"
The 17-year old understands the history that youth has played at Manchester United. It’s great to see that despite how large United has grown, they still give youth chance.
Everyone remembers the fabled class of 1992. The Red Devils are blessed to have the best youth academy in England, and arguably one of the best in Europe.
Many thought that Manchester United were shying away from that heritage when Jose Mourinho took over. However, Mourinho has gone above and beyond the expectations fans had. He’s also delighted that Gomes signed his first contract.
"“I am delighted that (Angel Gomes) has signed his first professional contract with the club,” Mourinho said. “I gave him his first-team debut at the end of last season which made him not only the youngest Manchester United player to play in the Premier League era.”"
Gomes is a traditional No. 10, but can also play on the wings. He’s quick, agile, and has the flair that truly great No. 10’s always possess.
He was the catalyst for Manchester United’s FA Youth Cup run last season. And this past summer, he captained England’s U-17’s World Cup winning side.
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Gomes has all the makings of a future star. His potential is clear. Hopefully he’ll continue the tradition of great Manchester United players to come through the youth ranks.