“I think he is the best academy player I have played and trained with and he is doing well at the pre season. I liked the way he plays because he reminds me of Luka Modric at Madrid. He is a top player to be honest”-FANS GOES CRAZY after Cristiano Ronaldo praise Manchester United 19 years old Academy Midfielder during an interview
As Manchester United’s pre-season moves to the United States, Erik ten Hag has an important decision to make regarding one of the club’s underrated young talents. The early pre-season games against Rosenborg and Rangers have already provided a platform for several academy players to showcase their abilities in front of the first-team manager. Among these emerging talents, Radek Vitek, Toby Collyer, and Ethan Wheatley have garnered attention, while fans are eager to see more of Harry Amass.
However, another promising player, Maxi Oyedele, has caught the eye with his performances, suggesting he could be on the brink of breaking into the first team. Oyedele has been quietly impressive during these early fixtures, notably delivering a sublime through ball that led to Joe Hugill’s goal against Rangers. His composure under pressure, particularly in bypassing the Rangers’ press and setting up the goal, highlighted his potential.
Last season, Oyedele faced challenges during his loan spells, but his resilience and work ethic have kept him in contention. His determination and skill set could be what Ten Hag is looking for, especially if he is included in the squad traveling to the United States. After the victory against Rangers, Oyedele posted an uncaptioned photo on Instagram, to which his academy teammate Kobbie Mainoo commented, “That time,” signaling a moment of recognition and support.
Oyedele and Mainoo have a history of working together in the academy, and Mainoo’s recent rise to the first team has served as a motivation for Oyedele. Reflecting on this, Oyedele mentioned the inspiration he draws from seeing fellow academy graduates like Mainoo and Garnacho making strides into the senior squad. “Seeing guys like Kobbie and Garnacho, who I played alongside at youth level, making it to the first team is incredibly motivating,” Oyedele shared in an interview with the club’s media. “It shows that these opportunities are real, and it’s something we all aim for.”
As United’s pre-season progresses, Ten Hag’s decisions regarding which young talents to take on the U.S. tour could significantly shape the future of players like Oyedele. The pre-season tour not only offers a chance for these young stars to impress on a bigger stage but also provides invaluable experience and exposure to the rigors of top-level football. Oyedele’s quiet yet impactful presence in these early games suggests that he could be one to watch as the club continues to build towards the new season.
