Sam Mather has confirmed his departure from Manchester United after 14 years at the club, with the academy winger set to join Turkish side Kayserispor in a bid to kickstart his career
Sam Mather confirmed his Man United exit after 14 years.
Sam Mather confirmed his Man United exit after 14 years.(Image: Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Manchester United winger Sam Mather has bid farewell after joining Turkish Super Lig strugglers Kayserispor. The 21-year-old brought to an end 14 years at Old Trafford, sharing an heartfelt message on social media that prompted an outpouring of support from his team-mates.
The winger is poised to join the Turkish outfit for an undisclosed fee, as per reports from the Manchester Evening News last week. The English talent will venture abroad just months after a summer switch to Kayserispor fell through at the last moment.
While Mather never made a senior appearance for United, he enjoyed loan stints at Rochdale and Tranmere Rovers, and was part of the squad that lifted the FA Youth Cup in 2022.
Taking to Instagram, Mather shared a series of touching photographs documenting his journey at the club, including images of him signing contracts and representing United on the pitch.
In his post, he wrote: "After 14 years my time at @manutd has come to an end, I would like to thank all the staff and players who have helped me become the person and player I am today.
"I will always be grateful for my time here and wish the club all the best.
"On a personal note it's time for me to move forward and I can't wait to get started!"
With 18 months still remaining on his deal, the 21 year old has opted to seek regular first-team football elsewhere, choosing to depart his boyhood club in pursuit of a new opportunity.
Despite missing out on a move last summer, Mather has been involved in first-team training sessions at Carrington this season and has made six appearances in academy matches to keep up his match fitness.
Fellow academy graduate Shea Lacey, who recently made his first-team debut, was among those wishing the winger well. The 18-year-old wrote: "Good luck my brother all the best."
Chido Obi-Martin, Toby Collyer, Harry Amass and former academy graduate Shola Shoretire were also among those sending their best wishes.
Sam Mather in training with Man United's first-team
Sam Mather in training with Man United's first-team(Image: Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Ahead of the January transfer window, there was interest in Mather from clubs in Turkey, Germany and Greece, with reports suggesting that Major League Soccer teams in America were also keen.
As part of his move to Turkey, a fee and buyback clause have been agreed upon and included in the deal.
Kayserispor, currently languishing in 16th place in the Turkish Super Lig and in the relegation zone on goal difference, will be Mather's new home. One of his first matches could be against Turkish giants Besiktas next Monday.
While Mather will be one of the few foreign players in the squad, he won't be the only Englishman in the region. Former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham is leading the line for Besiktas, while Dan Agyei and Archie Brown play for Kocaelispor and Fenerbahce respectively.