Manchester United have confirmed that full-back Habeeb Ogunneye has left the club on loan to Newport County.
Ogunneye joined United’s academy in 2022 and has made several appearances in the U18 Premier League, Premier League 2, the EFL Trophy, the UEFA Youth League, and the FA Youth Cup.
The right-back got his first senior call-up for the FA Cup fifth-round tie against Nottingham Forest in the 2023/24 season but did not feature in the game.
Ogunneye has also been named in the first team matchday squad for several other games and featured in the pre-season against Rosenborg last summer.
However, he has not made his official debut and has decided to join Newport to gain more first-team experience.
Speaking to Newport’s official website, the defender revealed why he decided to join the club.
He said: “Once I knew Newport were interested and Dave Hughes was there then it was an easy decision for me.
“I worked closely with him at Manchester United for two years and he is a great coach. He taught me a lot, and I have the utmost respect for him.
“It was an important decision for me because it is my first loan in senior football. I felt the time was right for me to take the step and I’m really looking forward to the challenge.
“I met and trained with the squad on Monday, and they have been great with me. They are all willing to work hard, set standards, and I want to play my part.
“I want to play as many games as I can and help the team be successful.’’
Despite his previous relationship with Hughes, he will have to compete with Joe Thomas, Newport’s first-choice right-back last term, for a starting berth.
His exit could now open the door for Jaydan Kamason to become the U21s’ first-choice right back next season, having served as a backup to Ogunneye last season.
United U21s will also be without Sonny Aljofree next season, following the defender’s loan move to League Two club Notts County.
Stats from transfermarkt.com