Midfielder Jim Thwaites is one of the most exciting talents in Manchester United’s academy and has already caught the attention of manager Ruben Amorim.
He was part of United’s squad for the post-season tour to Asia and featured against ASEAN All-Stars and the Hong Kong national team.
Club insider SullyTalkz now reports that Thwaites trained with the United first team last Friday ahead of the Premier League clash with Sunderland.
Amorim has been impressed with the talented midfielder’s performances for the academy this season, as well as in the few training sessions he has had with the senior team.
The 17-year-old has been described as ‘one of the best technical talents’ in United’s academy. He has drawn comparisons with Barcelona midfielder Pedri for his line-breaking passes and great vision.
Adding to his massive talent is his versatility. Thwaites can play anywhere across the midfield and can also play a right or left-sided winger.
Thwaites has played every league game for the U18s this term and scored the only goal in the league victory over Burnley. He was also on the scoresheet in the 4-2 defeat to Manchester City.
He debuted for the U18s in the 2023/24 season, making 10 appearances and became a more prominent member of the side last season, featuring in 24 league games. The teenager has also made four appearances for the U21s.
While Thwaites recently trained with the first team, team-mates Shea Lacey and Jack Fletcher are the closest to breaking into the senior side.
Lacey has overcome his fitness concerns and has impressed with his performances for the U21s this season, scoring two goals in three league appearances.
Likewise, Fletcher has shone for Travis Binnion’s side, featuring in all league games and netting twice.
