Manchester United’s recruitment strategy under Ineos has already resulted in the acquisition of several promising young players.
As financial conditions appear to be increasingly precarious, the club is anticipated to place significant reliance on its academy in the forthcoming years.
In light of this, Ineos has made substantial investments in United’s youth system, bringing in multiple new talents over the past year.
Chido Obi serves as a notable example, having been signed from Arsenal last summer. His performance in the FA Cup against Fulham has already caught the attention of Wayne Rooney, indicating a bright future ahead.
Additionally, Diego Leon and Sekou Kone are also noteworthy additions, both showcasing exceptional talent and the potential for a successful career at Old Trafford.
Currently, United has brought in another young prospect for a trial.
Manchester United take Glen Ilunga on trial
To maintain a steady influx of talented players from such a skilled academy group, ongoing recruitment is essential.
United is actively pursuing this strategy, having recently signed Jed Bangura, and now Ineos has brought 15-year-old Glen Ilunga, a defender from the Republic of Ireland, in for a trial.
According to Mail Online, Ilunga has been undergoing trials this week, and sources within youth football have highlighted him as a promising prospect.
He is regarded as ‘dominant’ in aerial duels, a crucial attribute for a central defender, while also possessing strong ball skills and an effective passing ability.
His characteristics suggest he embodies the qualities of a modern central defender, with notable physicality and size for his age.
United scouts identified Ilunga during his recent performances at the AR Elite Academy in Manchester.
Having relocated to England last November from Ireland, where he played for the professional club St. Pats, Ilunga is believed to attract interest from other clubs as well.
Manchester United have strong centre-back options for the next decade
Not long ago, United faced a significant lack of young talent in central defense, with Lisandro Martinez being the sole player still below his prime years.
This situation was mirrored in the academy, where experts expressed skepticism regarding the emerging young defenders. However, the landscape has shifted dramatically.
At just 19, Leny Yoro is poised to become a standout player for United, while 17-year-old Godwill Kukonki has already attracted the attention of Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United’s young central defenders
- Ayden Heaven – 18
- Daniel Armer – 17
- Glen Ilunga – 15* (not yet signed)
- Godwill Kukonki – 17
- Jayden Ngwashi – 16
- Leny Yoro – 19
- Reece Munro – 18
All six of these players have demonstrated exceptional potential in their respective positions, with some clearly more advanced than others.
With the anticipated addition of another starter, likely to take Martinez’s place, United will possess a group of centre-backs that can support them for the next decade, especially if Ilunga is also included.