Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has spoken about the importance of the club’s academy ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League clash against West Ham United at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils have overseen several academy graduates break into the first-team over the years and earlier this week, Alejandro Garnacho was handed his first-ever start for the club.
The youngster made a good impression against Sheriff Tiraspol and Ten Hag has now talked up the attention given to the academy which is beneficial for the first-team in the long run.
He told Manutd.com: “They give a lot of attention that they pay to the Academy and to teach players and build players, young players [to get them] into the first team.”
“And I think, with those players, you can develop a culture, a certain style of play, because you have them long in your building.
“So it’s really important for every club but not every club has it – but Manchester United has it and I think it is of big value.”
Ten Hag is the perfect manager to nurture United youngsters
Ten Hag comes with a big reputation from Ajax where he developed several youngsters. He has preferred to play more experienced stars at United, but things should change in future.
Garnacho is one of those, who has a big career ahead at United. There are several other talents grabbing attention including Zidane Iqbal, Charlie Savage, Charlie McNeil and Shola Shoretire.
They may not break into the first-team plans this season, but Ten Hag will no doubt be monitoring their performances in training. He recently said that Garnacho deserved his chance.
Garnacho had been a regular unused substitute for United lately, but made his full debut in midweek after Ten Hag was impressed with his attitude, resilience and determination in training.
The Argentine’s recent breakthrough should provide added motivation to other talented graduates as they aim to become a regular part of the first-team squad over the next few years.
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