Angel Gomes made the brave decision to leave Manchester United in 2020 amid concerns over game time. The versatile central midfielder has caught the eye at LOSC Lille and taken center stage for England during this week's international break.
Gomes' former England U21 manager, Lee Carsley, called the 24-year-old for the Three Lions' two opening UEFA Nations League fixtures. He came off the bench for his international debut in a 2-0 win against the Republic of Ireland and earned a first start in a 2-0 victory over Finland.
The Red Devil academy graduate displayed elegance on the ball and constant energy in the middle of the park. He made intricate passes that resembled those of an in-form Christian Eriksen, who looks likely to depart next summer. Has INEOS found a golden opportunity to replace the Dane?
Angel Gomes’ full England debut by numbers:
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) September 10, 2024
130 total touches
124 passes attempted
116 passes completed
17 passes into the final third
4 long balls attempted
3 long balls completed
2 tackles attempted
2 tackles won
2 fouls won
1 interception
1 chance created
EXACTLY… pic.twitter.com/Unhj7JwNPu
Manchester United should launch move for Angel Gomes next summer
Gomes' contract with LOSC Lille expires next summer which opens the door for a potential Manchester United reunion. He's been an integral member of the Ligue 1 side jointly-owned by INEOS which is another tick towards a potential return.
The London-born midfielder has made 118 appearances at Pierre Mauroy Stadium, posting eight goals and 18 assists. He's certainly been afforded more first team opportunities and developed into the exciting talent many at Carrington anticipated.
Gomes hinted at an interest in returning to the Premier League when speaking ahead of his international baptism. He said when asked if he's thought about heading back to the English top flight (via The Mirror):
"I have … but I believe everything will happen naturally and at its own time and I am really chilled. So, if something was to come up that did make sense, you never know in football."
Gomes was viewed as one of Manchester United's most promising talents when he rose through the club's youth ranks. He appeared 10 times at senior level but was wary of the competition for places at the time of his departure.
Former United youth coach and club legend Nicky Butt was well aware of Gomes' talents when the attacking midfielder weighed up his future four years ago. He told club media that 'he has a big future but he still has a long way to go'. His performances at Lille and now for England signify maturity and desire.
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