Manchester United’s famed academy has long been a cradle of talent, producing legends from the Busby Babes to the Class of ’92 and beyond. The pipeline has remained strong recently, with Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, and Alejandro Garnacho emerging as first-team regulars. Now, a new generation is knocking on the door. Here are five academy stars—Daniel Gore, Tyler Fletcher, Shea Lacey, Harry Amass, and Ethan Wheatley—who are tipped to make a breakthrough at Old Trafford. Though Manchester United is languishing outside the top ten in 13th place with nine games to go, finishing strong is eminent on coach Ruben Amorim’s mind.
If Manchester United is to take all 27 points available to them, that will set them up nicely for the new season, and with the Europa League still within their grasp. In that case, there is still that outside chance of returning to European competitions for next season. Several players are misfiring from all departments, and these young guns will relish the moment to showcase their mettle on the big stage.
Daniel Gore – The Midfield Dynamo
Daniel Gore has already flirted with the first team under Erik ten Hag and is energetic, composed, and technically gifted. The 19-year-old midfielder made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup and stood out in pre-season. Gore’s ability to control the tempo and his tenacity off the ball make him a complete midfielder. Gore joined Manchester United's academy in 2018 after starting his youth career at Burnley. He was part of the team that won the FA Youth Cup in the 2021–22 season. He made his senior debut for Manchester United on September 26, 2023, in a 3–0 victory against Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup. Later that year, Gore made his Premier League debut as a late substitute against Aston Villa on December 26. Gore has represented England at various youth levels, including the U16s, U18s, and U20s. With his consistent performances for the Red Devils U21s and a mature presence beyond his years, Gore is on the cusp of becoming a regular squad member in domestic cup competitions—and possibly more.
Tyler Fletcher – The Next in Line
Football runs deep in Tyler Fletcher’s veins. Son of former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, Tyler has been impressive since he arrived from Manchester City’s academy in 2023. A box-to-box midfielder with a knack for arriving in dangerous areas, Fletcher combines technical skill with a tireless work ethic.
Since the departure of former captain Roy Keane, Manchester United has been crying out for that dynamic box-to-box midfielder. With light years ahead of him, Flecther might be that guy. His intelligence on and off the ball reflects his footballing upbringing, and he has quietly emerged as a standout for the U18s, earning praise for his leadership and adaptability in midfield. Gore Featured in 23 competitive matches across various youth competitions. Scoring three goals and providing seven assists. He has accumulated 1,772 playing time and maintained a goal contribution rate of 0.15 goals per 90 minutes and 0.36 assists per 90. Will Amorim trust him? Only time will tell.
Shea Lacey – The Creative Spark
Arguably the most exciting talent in United’s academy, Shea Lacey, has dazzled with his flair, creativity, and eye for goal. Still just 17, Lacey operates primarily on the right wing but can also play centrally. His quick feet, dribbling, and composure in the final third have seen him likened to the flying Dutchman Arjen Robben in style, though his directness is more reminiscent of a young Ryan Giggs. Lacey is known for his versatility, primarily playing as a right winger but also capable of operating as an attacking midfielder.
His left-footed prowess and free-kick specialization have drawn attention, and he has been described as a "natural baller" with a "magic left foot". Shea Lacey continues to develop within Manchester United's academy, with his performances reflecting his potential to become a significant player for both club and country. After battling injuries, Lacey has returned stronger and is being carefully managed, but it’s only a matter of time before he becomes a household name.
Harry Amass – The Defensive Prodigy
Harry Amass, born on March 16, 2007, in London, England, is a left-footed defender who joined Manchester United's academy on July 1, 2024, after beginning his career at Watford. Amass is recognized for his versatility in defense, primarily operating as a left-back. His left-footedness adds balance to the team's defensive setup. Harry Amass has settled quickly into United’s youth system and has already been involved in first-team matchday squads. Amass was included in the first-team squad for several matches during the 2024–25 season. He was on the bench for four Premier League games and made his senior debut on March 16, 2025, as a substitute in the 69th minute against Leicester City.
A modern left-back with pace, positional awareness, and attacking thrust, Amass is considered one of the best young defenders in England. His ability to read the game and contribute both defensively and offensively marks him as a long-term successor in a position United have sought stability in for years. His inclusion in senior training sessions shows how highly he’s rated.
Ethan Wheatley – The Striker Waiting in the Wings
Manchester United’s search for a reliable striker has often led to external signings, but Ethan Wheatley offers hope from within. The tall, powerful forward has been prolific at youth levels, combining physical presence with technical ability. Wheatley’s hold-up play, finishing, and aerial prowess have caught the eye, and he’s already training regularly with the U21s. Wheatley progressed through Manchester United's academy, signing a professional contract in January 2024. He made his Premier League debut on April 24, 2024, against Sheffield United, becoming the club's 250th academy graduate to feature for the senior team.
During the 2023–24 season, he made three Premier League appearances without scoring. The out-of-favour and loanee striker Marcus Rashford was the last Academy graduate who made his senior debut in February 2016—he scored twice on his debut vs FC Midtjylland in the Europa League—and followed it up with two goals in his Premier League debut vs Arsenal. Since then, he has become a regular first-team player, scoring over 130 goals for Manchester United (as of 2025). However, we might just be seeing the back of Marcus as there is a growing debate about his next move. Therefore, as United looks for alternatives to support Rasmus Højlund, Wheatley could emerge as a homegrown option in the future.
Manchester United’s commitment to youth remains a pillar of the club’s identity, and the next generation is already making noise. While breaking into the first team at Old Trafford is no easy feat, Daniel Gore, Tyler Fletcher, Shea Lacey, Harry Amass, and Ethan Wheatley have the talent, mentality, and support to follow in the footsteps of those before them. The future looks bright.