Manchester United’s head coach Ruben Amorim has strongly hinted that another promising academy talent is nearing his first-team debut.

Rising star Harry Amass has been included in United’s squad for their crucial Europa League clash against Real Sociedad, marking a significant step in his development.

When asked about Amass’s selection in the 18-man squad, Amorim explained (via ManUtd.com):

“Amass is with us today. In the previous match against Fulham, we wanted to include him, but he had just played a full game against Arsenal, so we decided against it.

“We try to balance all the teams and anticipate our substitutions. We understand that bringing in young players is a major step, so we carefully manage their expectations.”

A Golden Opportunity for Amass

At just 17 years old, Amass is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Manchester United’s academy. He has frequently been part of the first-team matchday squads, gaining vital exposure to elite-level football.

Former manager Erik ten Hag previously included him in United’s pre-season tour of the United States. However, despite Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia being sidelined with injuries, Amass was not given a first-team opportunity at the time, with Ten Hag expressing concerns about whether he was physically ready for senior football.

Amorim’s Trust in Amass

Amorim disclosed that he had initially planned to feature Amass in United’s recent match against Fulham. However, with Patrick Dorgu serving a suspension, the manager opted to use Diogo Dalot as a left wing-back instead.

His inclusion in the squad against Real Sociedad indicates Amorim’s growing confidence in the young left-back. While Amass was linked with a loan move in January, United ultimately decided to keep him, unable to find a club with a strong enough development plan for his growth.

With Amorim already handing Chido Obi his debut, Amass could be the next academy talent to make his first senior appearance before the season concludes. Given his immense potential, a breakthrough moment might not be far away.

Manchester United’s turbulent season hit another setback as they suffered a heartbreaking FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham, losing on penalties.

With their Premier League campaign falling apart, currently sitting 14th in the table, securing European football via the league seems highly unlikely. This leaves the Europa League as their sole opportunity to salvage the season with silverware and a potential route back to the Champions League.

As the summer transfer window approaches, United are already assessing options to bolster their squad, particularly under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, who is expected to lead a major rebuild.

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the Red Devils have now set their sights on Sporting CP forward Francisco Trincão as a potential reinforcement in attack.

The 25-year-old winger has a release clause of £66 million in his current contract, which runs until 2027 at the Estádio José Alvalade. Having joined Sporting from Barcelona, the Spanish giants still hold a 50% sell-on clause, making negotiations more complex.

Sporting are reluctant to part ways with Trincão and have already initiated discussions with his representatives over a possible contract extension. However, Manchester United aren’t the only club interested. Reports suggest Manchester City are also in pursuit, with their incoming sporting director, Hugo Viana, eager to bring the Portuguese attacker to the Etihad Stadium.

Trincão primarily operates as a left-footed right-winger and has thrived in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system at Sporting, playing behind Viktor Gyökeres. His versatility allows him to also function as a second striker or attacking midfielder, making him a valuable asset for any top club.

So far this season, he has registered nine goals and 13 assists in 40 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his ability to influence games in the final third. Having previously experienced Premier League football during a loan spell with Wolves, he could seamlessly adapt if he returns to England.

With the summer transfer window looming, should Manchester United make the move and activate Trincão’s £66 million release clause

Ruben Amorim has suggested that Chido Obi could be in line for his first Manchester United start in the near future following his eye-catching performance off the bench against Fulham. The 17-year-old provided one of the few bright spots for United in their FA Cup exit, showcasing his potential as a first-team option.

Obi, who joined United from Arsenal last summer, made just his third senior appearance for the club and came close to marking it with a goal. The young forward had three notable opportunities—dragging one shot wide from a tight angle, narrowly missing another from close range, and forcing a strong save from Bernd Leno.

His 52-minute cameo produced more goal-scoring chances than Rasmus Hojlund has managed in 22 Premier League appearances this season. The Danish striker continues to struggle for form, extending his goal drought to 18 matches across all competitions.

With a crucial Europa League tie against Real Sociedad looming, Amorim faces a major selection dilemma. When asked if Obi could replace Hojlund in the starting lineup, the United boss remained open-minded. “Anything can happen in the next games,” he said. “We don’t have much time to train, but we need to assess the opposition and the physical condition of our players. My focus is always on the next match, and I will select the best players to win.”

As United look to rediscover their attacking edge, Obi’s breakthrough moment could be just around the corner