It is ingrained within the history of Manchester United that academy players are given opportunities, and Ruben Amorim is keeping that tradition alive, at least outside of match days.
When becoming the manager of Manchester United, it is non-negotiable that the academy plays a big part in the plans.
Ruben Amorim boasted an impressive academy record at Sporting CP, which made it appear like he might be tailor-made for the job at Old Trafford.
Now, almost 10 months into his position, Amorim has given three academy debuts at United, which isn’t bad, but the 2025/26 campaign has seen regression.
United didn’t have a single academy graduate start against Manchester City, with just three on the bench, including Tom Heaton.
Amorim has vowed to keep United’s academy record of at least one in the squad for the past 4,326. Now, a new youngster has been given a chance to impress in training.
Yuel Helafu in action for Manchester United U18s.
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Yuel Helafu in first team training for Manchester United
After a pretty devastating 3-0 Manchester derby defeat on Sunday, there was no rest for the majority of United’s squad, as those who didn’t play against the city rivals were back in training.
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The first team will have had the day to recover, something Amorim believes in to try and avoid injuries, and this also allows certain talents to step up from the academy.
Now, 17-year-old Yuel Helafu has been brought into the first team set-up by Amorim, as the youngster confirmed on his Instagram story.
Reinforcing this, Daily Mail journalist Nathan Salt took to X to state that the teenager was called up to work with those who didn’t play against City, noting it as being a good moment for the youngster.
Helafu is making waves at United, and his performances through the ranks have seen him almost fast-tracked up the levels, with comparisons to Trent Alexander-Arnold for his technical ability.
Amorim could have a player on his hands.
Who is Manchester United youngster Yuel Helafu?
While not one of the biggest names within the academy right now, there is real excitement about just how good Helafu could be.
Born in Leeds, Helafu was one of United’s 2025 scholars and is now showing why as the club gives him opportunities.
Four months ago, the right-back was playing U16 football and has quickly impressed at U18 and also U21, where he has featured against the PFA XI earlier this month.
Helafu is seen as a modern full-back capable on either side of the pitch, with midfielder-esque ability on the ball and also a tendency to invert, which explains the Alexander-Arnold comparisons.
Helafu is unlikely to be considered immediately for a senior debut but likely to play for the U21s in the near future, where he will have competition from Jaydan Kamason.