Manchester United’s miserable season has been brightened by the emergence of Kobbie Mainoo, who has established himself as a regular starter at the age of 18. And Erik ten Hag could be readying another highly-rated midfield starlet to make the step up to regular first- team football next term.
Ten Hag has previously stressed the importance of continuing United’s proud tradition of strengthening their senior ranks with talent from the youth academy.
“This is their moment. So we have to improve the squad. You can do it with players who make transfers but also players who are across the whole academy,” Ten Hag told MUTV near the start of his reign.
“Man United is famous [for] it. To bring young kids above and to play in the first team. Last year, Garnacho made it. So I always hope for a minimum of one player who can go into our squad and compete for a starting position.”
The Dutchman oversaw Alejandro Garnacho’s permanent promotion in his first season and Mainoo’s in his second. Next term, Dan Gore could be knocking on the door to bolster his midfield.
Gore has shot through the youth ranks alongside Mainoo and made his senior debut earlier this season, appearing as a substitute in United’s 3-0 Carabao Cup third-round win against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford.
The 19-year-old has earned Ten Hag’s trust, also featuring in three squads during United’s Champions League group-stage campaign.
And he is highly rated among club figures for a reason, captaining United’s U21s in Premier League 2 at the age of 18, having worn the armband for the U18s in the UEFA Youth League.
Gore will likely have further senior experience under his belt once pre-season comes around. He is bound to be part of Ten Hag’s plans after catching the eye during preparations last summer.