Manchester United’s academy midfield department puts the senior team to shame, and Jacob Devaney is arguably the most underrated of the lot.
Ruben Amorim’s biggest weak point right now is the midfield, but the solution could be right under his nose at Manchester United.
Within the United academy, there are a number of midfielders who have the ability to step into the first-team. As a result, Amorim called a handful into first team training over the past few days.
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Jim Thwaites is becoming a star for United, while Tyler Fletcher is also a very exciting talent. However, the most underrated player of the lot is Jacob Devaney.
Jacob Devaney dribbling for Manchester United.
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Martin Devaney sends Ruben Amorim a message about Jacob Devaney
With the current midfield underperforming and completely incapable of fulfilling Amorim’s requirements in the middle of the park, eventually an academy talent is likely to step up.
In this regard, Devaney is one midfielder good enough to push into the first team, and this opinion is held by Port Vale coach Martin Devaney, who also happens to be Jacob’s father.
Taking to X, Martin Devaney replied to praise for Jacob by labelling him as the best number six currently at United.
“18 and been a consistent high performer. Doesn’t do step-overs or shoot from 30 yards every game, so doesn’t get the limelight.
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“Controls the game, team player. Best 6 at the club.”
Devaney is an Ireland U21 international and captains United’s U21 side often from centre-back, which is likely having massive positive effects on his development from a physical and defensive point of view.
This message is a clear signal that Devaney could already be better than Manuel Ugarte and an aged Casemiro; Amorim should absolutely be looking to test that theory.
Manchester United could lose Jacob Devaney
While the top talents at Manchester United often make their way into the first team, some do fall through the cracks, such as Alvaro Fernandez, Angel Gomes, and James Garner.
Well, if Devaney isn’t given a clear route to senior opportunities soon, he might not be at United much longer.
Premier League rivals have been watching Devaney, tempted to sign the 18-year-old who is arguably the most consistent performer in the academy.
Devaney has, however, also impressed United, so the chances of him being allowed to exit look slim.
However, Amorim should be looking to integrate him and also Thwaites, 5-10 minutes a game, to see if they are already upgrades on the current crop.