Who is the BEST Man United academy graduate here, Post Ferguson Era?
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Marcus Rashford is widely regarded as the best Manchester United academy graduate in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. Emerging from the youth ranks, Rashford made a significant impact shortly after his debut in 2016, scoring crucial goals in both the Premier League and European competitions.
Key Achievements
- Debut Impact: Rashford scored two goals on his debut in the Europa League against Midtjylland, followed by another two in his Premier League debut against Arsenal just days later.
- Career Stats: As of now, he has made 134 goals, 70 assists in 410 appearances for the first team and has established himself as a key player for Manchester United.
- Trophy Wins: Throughout his career at United, Rashford has won several trophies, including the FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Europa League.
Comparisons with Other Graduates
While other notable academy graduates like Paul Pogba and Mason Greenwood have also made their mark, Rashfordâs consistent performance and influence on the pitch set him apart. Pogba had a successful but tumultuous career at United, marked by high expectations and eventual departures, while Greenwoodâs potential was overshadowed by off-field issues.
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Kobbie Mainoo has emerged as one of the brightest prospects from Manchester Unitedâs academy. The 19-year-old midfielder has made a rapid rise, progressing from an FA Youth Cup winner to a senior England international in less than two years.
Key Achievements
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Breakthrough Season (2023-24): Mainoo made his first-team debut in January 2023 and went on to make several appearances in the Premier League and Champions League. He scored crucial goals against Newport County in the FA Cup and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the league.
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FA Cup Final Goal: In the 2024 FA Cup final, Mainoo scored the winning goal in a 2â1 victory over Manchester City, becoming the first English teenager to score in a final since 1981 and the youngest since 1964.
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England Debut: Mainoo made his England debut in March 2024 and went on to play a key role in their run to the Euro 2024 final, becoming the youngest England player to feature in a semi-final of a major tournament.
Style of Play and Potential
Mainoo is primarily a central midfielder known for his intelligence, composure on the ball, and ability to drive forward with dribbling. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has compared his style to that of Clarence Seedorf. Manager Erik ten Hag has praised Mainooâs adaptability to high levels and willingness to develop further.
Contract Situation
Manchester United are preparing to discuss a new contract with Mainoo to reward his performances and reflect his growing importance in the squad. His current deal runs until 2027 with an option for an additional year, but the club is keen to secure his long-term future.
Kobbie Mainooâs rapid rise, key contributions, and potential make him one of the most exciting academy graduates to emerge at Manchester United in recent years. The club is determined to build around him as he continues his development.
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Another promising young talent is Alejandro Garnacho. He embodies the clubâs commitment to nurturing young talent from its academy.
Garnacho is known for his dynamic playing style as a winger. Born on July 1, 2004, in Spain, he joined Unitedâs youth academy from AtlĂ©tico Madrid in October 2020 and quickly made a name for himself.
Career Highlights
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Youth Success: Garnacho was instrumental in Manchester Unitedâs victory in the FA Youth Cup in 2022, where he showcased his skills and potential.
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First-Team Debut: He made his senior debut for Manchester United on April 28, 2022, at just 17 years old, coming on as a substitute in a match against Chelsea.
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Breakthrough Season: During the 2022-23 season, Garnacho scored his first senior goal against Real Sociedad in the UEFA Europa League and later netted a dramatic injury-time winner against Fulham in the Premier League.
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Recognition: He received the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award in May 2022 and has been praised for his performances under manager Erik ten Hag.
Recent Performances
In the ongoing 2024-25 season, Garnacho has continued to impress. He scored the opening goal in the FA Community Shield against Manchester City and netted his first league goal of the season against Southampton. His performance has earned him recognition as one of Europeâs best players under 21.
Playing Style
Garnacho is recognized for his speed, dribbling ability, and attacking flair. He is versatile enough to play on both wings but has shown particular effectiveness on the left flank. His energetic style and commitment to improving have drawn comparisons to some of the clubâs great wingers.
Future Prospects
With a contract running until June 2028, Garnacho is viewed as a key part of Manchester Unitedâs future plans. His contributions on the pitch and potential for growth make him an exciting player to watch as he develops further in his career.
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In my opinion, Marcus Rashford is the best Manchester United academy graduate since the post-Alex Ferguson era.
Rashfordâs rise to prominence:
1.â â Debut at 18: Scored twice against Midtjylland in the Europa League (2016)
2.â â Breakout season: 2016-17, 11 goals in 32 Premier League appearances
3.â â Consistency: Established himself as a regular starter under Mourinho and Solskjaer
Reasons why Rashford stands out:
1.â â Goalscoring: 88 goals in 294 appearances for Manchester United
2.â â Versatility: Effective on the wing, as a striker, and in a No. 10 role
3.â â Pace and skill: Electric speed, agility, and ball control
4.â â Work rate: Presses defenders, tracks back, and supports teammates
5.â â Leadership: Taken on responsibilities, wearing the No. 10 shirt and captaining the team
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Looking at these Man United academy graduates, Iâd say Marcus Rashford stands out as the best post-Ferguson era. Heâs been consistent, scoring crucial goals, especially during tough seasons. His longevity and impact make him a strong contender. Although Garnacho has potential, Rashfordâs contributions are proven over time.
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