Manchester United’s legendary academy is buzzing with excitement as Darren Fletcher’s Under-18s march into the FA Youth Cup quarter-finals. After a dominant win over Oxford United, the “Class of 2026” is being hailed as one of the most talented crops in recent memory.
Fletcher, who chose to return to his academy coaching role despite an offer to join Michael Carrick’s first-team staff, has a wealth of young talent at his disposal. Here are the five key players spearheading United’s hunt for a record-extending trophy.
The Poster Boy: JJ Gabriel (15)
At just 15 years old, JJ Gabriel is the name on everyone’s lips. The “supremely talented” teenager has already netted 16 goals in 20 games and recently trained with the senior squad. His retention was a major victory for directors Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada, who intervened last summer to keep him at Old Trafford. Gabriel is the undisputed “star man” of this generation.
The Clinical Finisher: Chido Obi (18)
United made a clear statement of intent by dropping Chido Obi back to the U18s for this competition. The 18-year-old, who arrived from Arsenal with massive expectations, has scored two goals in two Youth Cup games. By prioritizing this trophy over “run of the mill” U21 fixtures, United are showing they mean business.
The Dead-Ball Specialist: Jim Thwaites (18)
Possessing a ball-striking technique that has been described as “extra-terrestrial,” Thwaites is the team’s secret weapon. After missing months due to injury, the dead-ball specialist is back in top form, recently adding another sensational free-kick to his highlight reel in the Manchester derby.
The Defensive Pillar: Godwill Kukonki (18)
A left-footed defender who is already drawing comparisons to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, Kukonki provides the solid foundation United need. Capable of playing at left-back or centre-back, his physical presence and ability to play out from the back make him a rare and valuable asset for Fletcher’s tactical setup.
The Iconic Name: Kai Rooney (16)
The Rooney legacy continues. Having just turned 16, Kai made his competition debut at Old Trafford against Derby. A left-footed winger who drifts in from the right, he has been honing his finishing skills under the guidance of his legendary father. While he has two more years of eligibility, his early integration is a testament to his rapid development.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
