Man Utd have chosen not to move forward with young midfielder Mouhamed Dabo, after a recent look at him.
Club Ends Interest After Trial
Man Utd brought in Mouhamed Dabo earlier this season after scouts spotted his rise back home. He’s only 17, but his profile drew plenty of interest. The club wanted to see how he handled a tougher environment, so he spent a short spell training at Carrington.
The Red Devils saw enough potential to invite him in, but not enough to take the next step. Although, he handled the sessions well and left a good impression on the coaches. But, the decision-makers felt it wasn’t the right moment to commit.
The PL side walked away without offering a deal. Given that, it hints that they are keeping their plans tight as they shape next season’s squad. Now, Dabo has signed a pre-contract with Croatian second division side NK Kustosija.
🚨 | Manchester United rejected the opportunity to sign Mouhamed Dabo after his recent trial period with the club. The 17-year-old made a positive impression on staff, but did not convince them enough to earn a contract. [@RichFay] pic.twitter.com/i8buq7IQ6O
— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) December 7, 2025
Age Rules Complicated The Man Utd Move
Even if Man Utd wanted him, English rules would have forced the move onto a slower track. Dabo cannot sign anything meaningful until he turns eighteen next summer. Any agreement now would only be a promise, not a contract, and that adds risk for both sides.
Ruben Amorim’s have been trying to keep their youth pathway clean, only bringing in players who fit the long-term plan. In this case, the wait, the competition for minutes, and the timing of his development made the club hold back.
The club felt it was better to step aside instead of bringing in another teenager. They might’ve thought he would struggle for chances in a crowded midfield group.
Author’s opinion:
Man Utd made a cautious call, and it feels like the right one. Dabo has talent, but the timing wasn’t on his side. A clearer path elsewhere might serve him better right now.
As featured on ManUNews.com