‘I’m happy I left Man Utd – but it was difficult to have to say goodbye to everyone’

Dailystar.co said that Manchester United’s 250th academy graduate will appear next, a huge milestone for the club. They’ve had at least one academy product in their matchday squad for 86 years, and this pattern doesn’t seem to be ending soon. Dan Gore and Willy Kambwala earned their senior debuts this season, while Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are now regulars for Erik ten Hag.

Marcus Rashford is the club’s primary offensive power, while Scott McTominay is enjoying his greatest season and 36-year-old Jonny Evans returned unexpectedly last summer.

Despite these recent successes, several athletes haven’t entirely converted beyond occasional appearances. In the previous 18 months, James Garner, Charlie Savage, and Zidane Iqbal all gone permanently, while Anthony Elanga has failed to capitalise on his breakthrough season.

Fans may remember Angel Gomes from years ago. After starting just three of his six appearances the year before, the midfielder left United in 2020 after 10 professional outings. After Jose Mourinho brought him into the first squad in 2017, the young player was expected to succeed.

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At 16 years and 263 days, he was the youngest player to debut since 1953. Many United players stayed for their major break. This method worked for some but not all. Gomes didn’t want to wait. At 23, he joined Lille OSC before the 2020/21 season and has started regularly.

In 30 appearances this season, Gomes has played different centre midfield positions. His two goals and five assists this season indicate good play. He’s one game from his 100th club appearance.

Thoughts of his time at United make him grateful. However, he’s glad he moved to France at 19 to start his professional career.

“On the last day [at United], it was hard to say goodbye to everyone, finish training, and be surrounded by your team-mates who you’ve played with since you were little,” Gomes told 90Football, via the Manchester Evening News I must depart… I struggled leaving Carrington knowing I would never return. My only home was it. Returning home and receiving my items back were unpleasant.”