Next Generation: Two academy stars closing in on Man United first team

Manchester United youth teams have burst out of the blocks this season, providing a rare bright spot amid first-team struggles.

Many starlets have caught the attention of fans and staff members, but two teenagers appear to be a cut above the rest.

According to journalist Nathan Salt, Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey are seen as the closest to breaking into the first-team squad.

Jack is the son of former Man United midfielder and current under-18 head coach Darren Fletcher.

The 18-year-old thrives as an attacking midfielder but has been deployed at left-back over recent games.

Playing in defence has allowed him to showcase his ball-carrying ability, driving the team forward from deeper positions.

However, it is yet to be determined which position suits him best.

It is common for young talents to rotate across positions before cementing their signature role.

Versatility is a prized asset in modern football, and Fletcher has shown he is ready to embrace it.

Despite starting in the full-back role against Athletic Club, he had the freedom to roam in the central areas.

It was amazing to see him switching the ball from the left to the right flank with ease.

His overlapping run in stoppage time set up an assist for Gabriele Biancheri’s match-winning goal.

Shea Lacey is another scintillating talent, brimming with the qualities of a future world-class superstar.

The 18-year-old has excelled on the right wing, blending clever movement with a magical left foot to carve out chances for his teammates.

Amorim and several United first-team stars have already been blown away by his technical skills.

If he can stay fit over the coming months, United will likely be tempted to hand Lacey his senior debut before the conclusion of this campaign.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .