Manchester United snub Mouhamed Dabo in favour of “next Pedri” Jim Thwaites | OneFootball

Ruben Amorim has received backlash for showing little trust in Manchester United academy players.

The United head coach has failed to start any academy player in the Premier League this season. Kobbie Mainoo, in particular, is thought to be “desperate” to leave his boyhood club on loan in search of playing time.

Tyler Fredricson, Jack Fletcher and Shea Lacey have all featured on the United bench without any league minutes this season.

However, the club’s hierarchy are paying a lot of attention to the academy, having hired Stephen Torpey from Brentford to lead their youth setup. They have also shaped their transfer strategy, as there is a determination not to block the pathway for highly-rated academy stars. 

Manchester United end Dabo pursuit

In recent months, United have been strongly linked with Be Sport academy midfielder Mouhamed Dabo.

Earlier this year, the Senegal U17 captain spent a few weeks training at Carrington, impressing figures at United. Dabo remains available, but the Red Devils have decided to move in a different direction. 

According to journalist Christopher Michel, United had been working on a transfer for the Senegalese prodigy. 

It is understood that the Premier League giants decided against going ahead with the deal in order to prioritise the development of “great talent” Jim Thwaites and Cristian Orozco.

Man United have their very own Pedri

Thwaites has been one of United’s standout midfield prospects, raising the eyebrows with his technical prowess and positional awareness in the U18 Premier League.

The 17-year-old defensive midfielder has also trained with the senior players. It is believed Amorim and his staff have been left impressed by the Englishman. Thwaites has been compared to Pedri for his press-resistance and exceptional vision.

Meanwhile, United recently agreed a deal with Colombian outfit Fortaleza CEIF to sign their midfield gem Orozco.

The 17-year-old South American will formally join the Mancunians next summer. 

Featured image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images

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