There have been a fair few youngsters pass through the doors at Old Trafford in recent years…
Although a club that famously put it’s faith in youth under Alex Ferguson, Manchester United seem to have foregone homegrown talent in recent years.
With the exception of Louis Van Gaal’s last season, we haven’t seen many players establish themselves in the first team as the Red Devils instead look to bring in marquee signings.
We have seen some young talent in recent times, however, with Marcus Rashford consistently impressing whilst Luke Shaw and Anthony Martial have established themselves as first-teamers.
Jose Mourinho is now in charge after taking over from Van Goal in the summer – a man not known for favouring youth – meaning chances for academy players will be at a premium.
There are however a few young players who could potentially make a name for themselves in Mourinho’s new era, but only if they impress when given a chance.
With that said, these 3 Man Utd under-21 players are under pressure to make the grade…
TIMOTHY FOSU-MENSAH
Timothy Fosu-Mensah has a real chance of claiming a first-team spot this season.
The versatile defender put in an impressive performance against Zorya in the Europa League recently, with United fans in the Tavern waxing lyrical and demanding he gets a chance in the first team.
The Dutchman’s ability to play on either side of the defence will allow him more opportunities to impress, while his ability on the ball has led to some calls to see him partnered with Paul Pogba in midfield.
ANDREAS PEREIRA
Not currently at Old Trafford, Andreas Pereira is hoping to impress by performing well on loan.
Pereira is currently plying his trade with La Liga side Granada and will know he needs to prove himself to stand any chance of breaking into the Manchester United first team when he returns.
It was a good idea for the Brazilian to leave having only picked up a handful of substitute appearances last season, and he has already started five games and managed an assist in Spain.
ADNAN JANUZAJ
Another man who has gone out on loan, Adnan Januzaj is at a crossroads in his career.
The Belgian is hoping to find form at the club he first made his name against – Januzaj announced himself with a brace against Sunderland back in 2013.
Since then his career has stalled as he has failed to impress at United and in an ill-fated loan spell at Dortmund.
Should Januzaj succeed at the Stadium of Light however, he may well find himself part of Jose Mourinho’s plans next season.
