Manchester United’s academy is packed full of talent who are rated among some of the best in the country, but now one youngster has walked away from Carrington.
It was last year when Sir Jim Ratcliffe slammed the academy for ‘struggling’, which wasn’t completely true, but it has later been suggested he meant the infrastructure.
However, with the new training ground built, Manchester United’s U21 side are top of Premier League 2, while the U18s are doing really well in the FA Youth Cup with the likes of JJ Gabriel.
Competition for places at the United academy are so competitive, and now one player who is lower in the pecking order has decided to continue his career elsewhere.
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Jayce Fitzgerald walking out for Manchester United.
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
Leeds United sign Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher
Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher has officially left United, heading to Elland Road to continue his career.
The Serbian youth international is 17 years old, and was considered among United’s potential ‘next big thing’ rated players. However, now he has departed for a bitter United rival.
Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher warms up in Manchester United top.
Photo by Poppy Townson – MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images
The Yorkshire-based side confirmed this capture on Thursday, with the official Leeds United website announcing the deal.
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Interestingly, the 17-year-old has immediately been thrust up an age group for Leeds, as he will link up with Scott Gardner’s U21s.
For United, Ibrovic-Fletcher was an U18 at best, but has rarely been seen this season.
Last summer, Ibrovic-Fletcher was showing signs of being United’s breakout for this season, as he was on fire in pre-season. But clearly the club was happy for him to leave.
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Manchester United celebrate winning league.
Photo by John Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images
Edward Ibrovic-Fletcher first words after joining Leeds from Manchester United
In the official announcement, Leeds had quotes from Ibrovic-Fletcher.
“It feels brilliant,” the 17-year-old said. “It is been something I have dreamed of for a long time, spending time at Leeds.
“I can’t wait to get started. I was here when I was really young for a little bit, and now I am back here. I am an attacking player, a creative player on the box, and like scoring and assisting.
“I think it is a good place for development, for me to develop as a player and improve. It is definitely something you look for.
“I am a Leeds fan, so that was obviously a factor! I just want to get in, play consistently, and score. To play in front of the fans will be a dream come true.”
Ibrovic-Fletcher is a top talent, capable of scoring goals and being creative; hopefully, this doesn’t come back to haunt the Red Devils.
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