‘Fans won’t tolerate…’: Old Trafford is becoming something of a black hole for our youngsters – opinion | OneFootball

A lot has been made of the Mancheser United academy pathway as of late.

This specific aspect has come to light with Anthony Elanga scoring during the Nottingham Forest game and Marcus Rashford doing well at Aston Villa. For many, the club is at this point a black hole for promising talent.

Players with potential are coming in as of late and can’t live up to the expectations. Then, once leaving the club, they appear to instantly find their form and look to be at the apex of their abilities. Whether it’s the pressure of the badge or the systems never fitting with the skill set, a lot can’t seem to find their way at Carrington.

Words from former player Scott McTominay

(Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)

While speaking with Rory Smith of The Observer, Scott McTominay spoke on this issue. He did well at Man Utd, but he then made the departure for Napoli. For the issues that were at the club at the time, the Scottish player is now doing well in Serie A at Napoli.

He is something of an exception to the rule. While with the Reds, he often played well, and many were upset to hear that he would be moving on. Many had shorter and less successful stints compared to him. McTominay offered a potential explanation:

According to him, it appears to be more of the built-up pressure that proves to be too overwhelming for young players. On one hand, there needs to be a standard. On the other hand, unreasonable expectations create imbalance and equally can set up the table for failure.

McTominay is valid in the sense that judging and writing a player off too soon can present its problem. Particularly as a teenager or someone in their early 20s, it can be a different stage for each individual when someone hits their stride. More importantly, a bad game or rough stretch can often be fixed. Sometimes playing through the mistakes is what ultimately serves the athlete better in the long run.

Finding the balance for Man Utd

Each circumstance is different, though, and should be assessed on an individual basis. Whatever the case, it appears most of what is going on ends up proving to have been the wrong decision. At the end of the day, it comes down to poor organizational structure. For too long, the lack of a clear plan or alignment has plagued the club.

Ruben Amorim is showing some positives, and some of the younger players are showing early promise. This is the Premier League. When the youngsters come on and don’t immediately score a hat trick, they will need to be given ample time. This is particularly true with the current state of everything. Against other, more put-together EPL sides, being too harsh on the potential young talent will only further worsen the situation.

Everything has a limit, of course. Anyone who isn’t giving their all and who has a poor attitude would deserve the criticisms that come their way. The line, granted, is different for everyone. McTominay’s words, though, show what a notable ex-Man Utd player believes is part of the issue.

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