Five Manchester United Academy Prospects Ready to Support Michael Carrick This Season

Manchester United's summer transfer activity was quiet, with the club securing only Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos for a combined £85m (£115m). This leaves Michael Carrick short on squad depth as the team prepares for the demands of Champions League football. Yet, hope may lie in the club's youth ranks.

Two notable signings flew under the radar: 18-year-olds Tynan Thompson and Cristian Orozco. Thompson, who impressed at Tottenham by making three senior matchday squads in 2025-26 and reportedly cost £8m, offers an option on the left wing. Orozco provides midfield cover at the base, helping address squad needs.

Several academy players stood out during pre-season, showing potential to address gaps in the squad. Here are five talents Michael Carrick could rely on to avoid another slow start in the INEOS era.

JJ Gabriel

Not yet 16, JJ Gabriel is already generating significant buzz across English football. Last season, he scored 29 goals in 32 games, propelling United to the finals of the FA Youth Cup and U18 Premier League Cup. His performances earned him the U18 Premier League Player of the Season award and caught Carrick's attention.

Gabriel made his senior debut on August 1 against Atletico Madrid, entering in the 82nd minute and impressing with his skill, composure, and bursts of pace. A two-footed forward, he excels when cutting in from the left and can also play as a No.10. With uncertainty over Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee's futures and Benjamin Sesko sidelined by injury, Gabriel’s versatility might prove valuable. While his physicality in the Premier League remains to be tested, his technical talent is undeniable.

Jim Thwaites

Thwaites debuted alongside Gabriel against Atletico, completing 86% of his passes in nine polished minutes. He then scored and controlled the tempo in the U21s' 5-1 win over Ipswich. At 18, his vision and passing have drawn comparisons to Paul Scholes. He works relentlessly off the ball and demonstrates maturity beyond his years.

Defensive midfield is a known problem spot, especially with Manuel Ugarte out until next year due to an ACL injury. Thwaites offers press resistance, line-breaking passing, and dangerous set-piece deliveries. His football intelligence resembles Carrick’s own style, suggesting big plans lie ahead.

Shea Lacey

Lacey appeared three times last season, most memorably in an FA Cup defeat to Brighton where he impressed despite leaving on a second yellow card. After recovering from injury and suspension, he returned for the final Premier League game and has been a standout on United’s summer tour.

Lacey scored a fine goal in a 5-0 win over Rosenborg and won a penalty against Atletico. Comfortable playing behind Bryan Mbeumo as an attacking midfielder, he offers strong close control and creativity. Though Mbeumo and Amad Diallo rank ahead, Lacey’s resilience and flair could earn him a more regular role amid a demanding schedule.

Jacob Devaney

After a successful loan at St Mirren, where he helped the club avoid relegation, Devaney returned to United’s fold. The 19-year-old impressed in pre-season, notably in matches against Wrexham and Rosenborg, operating mainly as a centre-back despite being a central midfielder by trade.

Carrick praised Devaney’s performance at centre-half, highlighting his confidence, vocal presence, and command on the pitch. Known for leadership, Devaney has captained the U21s and stands out in a squad lacking many natural leaders beyond Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire. While he may seek moves if senior minutes don’t come, Carrick should consider keeping him.

Dan Armer

Unlike Devaney, Dan Armer is accustomed to playing center-back. The Scottish defender impressed in substitute appearances against Wrexham, Rosenborg, and Atletico with his composure and ball-playing skills. His style reminded veteran Harry Maguire of himself, with Maguire praising Armer’s performances and progress.

Armer may have the clearest path to a starting spot given injuries to Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez. Standing 6ft 4in tall and tactically mature, he should adapt well to senior football. His hunger and readiness mean Carrick has little to lose by giving him chances to prove himself.