Several Manchester United academy graduates have joined veteran first teamers in being released by the Red Devils as Ruben Amorim looks to build his new era at the club
Jack Kingdon and James Nolan of Manchester United U18 celebrate winning the U18 Premier League Final between Chelsea U18 and Manchester United U18 at Stamford Bridge on May 14, 2024 in London, England.
Manchester United academy stars Jack Kingdon and James Nolan have both left the club as free agents
(Image: Ash Donelon, Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United academy starlet James Nolan has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the club after parting ways with the Red Devils. It was reported early last month that three youngsters - Nolan, Jack Kingdon and Sam Murray - would be allowed to leave as free agents this summer.
United published their retained list on Monday and the aforementioned players’ departures were made official. Nolan spent last season on loan with Inverness Caledonian Thistle in Scottish League One, where he made 33 appearances and scored his first career goal.
The 19-year-old defender will now look for a new club to begin his next chapter. Taking to Instagram, Nolan wrote: "My time at Manchester United has now come to an end.
"From joining at the age of seven to now leaving at 19 it has been my second home. I just want to say a massive thank you to the coaches, players and everyone at the club for making my time unforgettable. I’ve made memories to last a life time.
"Once a Red always a Red." Nolan is a versatile player and mainly played at full-back for Caledonian Thistle.
Central defender Jack Kingdon also shared his gratitude in a similar social media post, saying: “After nearly 5 years at this club, it is my time to move onto the next chapter in my career.
“The experiences this club has given me I will always be grateful for. The lads, staff and fans have been outstanding with me whilst I've been here.
"Manchester United will always have a place in my heart, but it is time for the next chapter. Thank you, Reds."
Kingdon as an academy product was instrumental in the Under-18 treble-winning team in 2023/2024. The 19-year-old, who is a Scotland youth international, was also excellent on loan with Rochdale after signing for the club in the winter window.
James Nolan (c) with his Manchester United team-mates
James Nolan (c) voiced his gratitude towards Manchester United(Image: 2023 Manchester United FC)
It's understood that Kingdon was on the verge of signing for Ineos-owned FC Lausanne Sport on loan in January before he signed for Rochdale, who he helped reach the National League play-offs.
Academy goalkeepers Tom Myles and Tom Wooster have also been released this summer, with the official club website’s statement reading: “The Academy is proud of all of our departing young players throughout the age groups. They will be supported in securing contracts at new clubs, provided with a bespoke aftercare programme, and will always have a lifelong association with Manchester United.”
Joining them in the mass clearout after a disastrous season for the first team are established stars Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof. Tom Heaton is also included on the list of free transfers, however, the club remains in discussions with the goalkeeper about a new deal that would see him remain part of the squad for the 2025/26 season.
It is understood that there will be a limited number of spots available in Ruben Amorim’s squad next season as the Portuguese head coach looks to transform the club’s fortunes with new additions.
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