(Football news) After losing their preseason opener 1-0 against Rosenborg in their first game of the summer, the Red Devils defeated the Rangers 2-0 on Saturday afternoon.
Now, Manchester United will travel to the United States for three games against Arsenal, Real Betis, and Liverpool before coming back to England to get ready for the Community Shield matchup with Manchester City.
Over the course of the next three games, Ten Hag will give young players their chance. In light of this, we have identified three players who may see regular time with the first team in 2024–25.
Ethan Wheatley | 18 years old | Striker
Wheatley has started both of Man United’s pre-season matches against Rosenborg and Rangers, and the 18-year-old is again expected to be involved against Arsenal on Saturday.
The Red Devils have boosted their forward department with the signing of Joshua Zirkzee this summer, with the Netherlands international set to provide support for number nine Rasmus Hojlund next season.
However, if Manchester United do not sign another forward, then it could mean a full promotion to the first team for Wheatley, who clearly has the trust of Ten Hag.
The England Under-18s international made three Premier League appearances for the 20-time English champions last season, and he has an impressive record for the club’s Under-18s, having found the back of the net on 14 occasions in 28 appearances.
Harry Amass | 17 years old | Left-back
Manchester United had a crisis at left-back last season, and the issue remains, as Tyrell Malacia is not close to returning from a serious knee injury, while Luke Shaw will not be with the squad until the start of August due to his involvement for England at Euro 2024.
Shaw’s fitness is a concern, and if Manchester United do not sign another left-back this summer, then there is a strong chance that 17-year-old Amass will receive some action next season.
The London-born defender made the move to the Red Devils from Watford last year, and he was on the bench against Liverpool in the Premier League back in April.
Amass has been involved in both of Man United’s pre-season matches this summer, and the youngster could quickly find himself in the first-team picture if he impresses in the United States.
Toby Collyer | 20 years old | Central midfielder
Collyer captained Man United in the second half of their pre-season friendly with Rosenborg, and the 20-year-old also caught the eye with his performance against Rangers as a starter on Saturday.
The youngster arrived at Old Trafford from Brighton & Hove Albion in March 2022, and he has made 27 appearances for the club’s Under-23s outfit.
Collyer is a defensive midfielder, and it is believed that Ten Hag is considering using the Englishman on a regular basis next season, with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen being linked with exits.
Ten Hag was present when Collyer signed a new contract at Manchester United earlier this month, and he is allegedly not available for loan this summer despite a host of interest in his services.
Also read: Manchester United get a boost in signing Manuel Ugarte from PSG
