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Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has picked a strong starting XI for their FA Cup third-round tie against League One side Wigan Athletic to avoid further embarrassment.
The Red Devils finally progressed thanks to a 2-0 win with academy star Omari Forson making his first-team debut, while academy graduates such as Kobbie Mainoo, Hannibal Mejbri and Willy Kambwala all got minutes under their belts .
Young striker Joe Hugill was named on the bench but did not feature, although it was surprising to see academy gem Isak Hansen-Aaroen not named in the matchday squad.
The Norwegian has been knocking on the door of the first team for some time and is frequently called upon by the Dutch manager to train and even played during United’s pre-season tour over the summer.
Unhappy Isak Hansen-Aaroen
It always seemed like it was time for the 19-year-old to make his professional debut and it was strange to see him snubbed for the match at the DW Stadium.
The attacking midfielder was said to be deeply disappointed after missing out and now wants to move on. His current contract ends in 2024.
The Peoples Person reported that his fitness coach advised the United Academy star to move to new horizons, to a club where his talent will be more appreciated than in Manchester.
United are said to be in talks over a new contract, but judging by the reactions of the youngster and his team, it doesn’t look like this is going to end well.
Hansen-Aaroen’s technical ability means he has no shortage of suitors and Fichajes claims Napoli and Ajax have joined Spanish giants Atletico Madrid in the race for the versatile teenage star.
Chase the signature
“The lack of opportunities in the Red Devils first team pushes young Isak Hansen-Aaroen to the exit door at Old Trafford. Courted by Naples and Ajax, the Norwegian appears in the orbit of Atlético de Madrid.
“Continuing with the Norwegian, it should be noted that he also delights Ajax in Amsterdam and Naples. Two teams that do not lose sight of their dilemma within the Red Devils, which represents a double tough nut to crack in Atlético’s aspirations. We will see if the Cholo team wins the day against Hansen-Aaroen.”
The former Tromso player, who can play all over midfield but excels primarily as a number 10, should have had some minutes but looks set to miss out on United barring a miraculous change of stance from Ten Hag.
United have already sold quite a few promising stars over the summer who have proven the club’s judgment wrong and the young Norwegian could soon join the list.
Ten Hag’s talent identification hasn’t always been spot on, and this could be another case of Ten Hag overlooking youth in favor of already-made stars. INEOS must carefully analyze this case to ensure that such errors are minimized.
