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Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick has labelled Manchester United's 2-1 defeat to 10 man Newcastle as "bitterly disappointing." (1:31)
William Osula's winning goal against Manchester United for Newcastle United resulted in a 12-year-old social post resurfacing, proving the striker's lengthy journey.
"Congratulations to 11-year-old William Osula from Denmark, winner of today's MU Soccer Schools World Skills Final," a post on X from Manchester United's official account read from Nov. 2014.
It showed three pictures of talented, aspiring footballers including the winner of the competition alongside Bryan Robson and Gary Pallister -- a young boy who would later haunt the club.
On Wednesday night, 22-year-old Osula scored a brilliant 90th-minute winner to hand Newcastle a 2-1 win at Old Trafford.
William Osula haunted Manchester United 12 years after showcasing his skill at Old Trafford. Getty
He had only been introduced as a substitute in the 85th minute. Newcastle were down to 10 men due to Jacob Ramsey's red card but were level heading into stoppage time when Osula received the ball in the right-hand channel.
He cut inside, evaded United's defence, and curled a left-footed shot beyond Senne Lammens.
"That was the best feeling ever," he told TNT Sports.
"I was so happy for that. When I came on I just prayed that I was going to score and make something happen and thank God that that happened.
"I was practicing that in training yesterday, just cut in and finish it, so the hard work paid off."
William Osula first given a chance by Sheffield United
Osula has regularly been stuck behind Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa in the pecking order for Newcastle this season.
The Danish striker was picked by Sheffield United who brought him through their academy, and gave him a professional debut.
He spent time on loan at Derby County in League One but Newcastle spotted his potential. Osula was signed in 2024 for £10 million ($13m).
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His hard work in training was highlighted by Newcastle boss Eddie Howe after his match-winning heroics on Wednesday night.
"Will asked after training yesterday for 10 more balls," Howe said.
"He wanted 10 more finishes and a carbon copy of the goal he scored today. He scored eight out of 10."
The potential was always there, and first cropped up at Old Trafford 12 years ago when he won a competition as a child.