Manchester United almost always have players on loan at other clubs. Great talents at the academy who have earned the “next step”, but who do not get enough playing time for development in the senior team. Amad Diallo took his big step on loan at Sunderland in the 2022/23 season and returned to United for a permanent place. In the weekend’s match between Sunderland and Man Utd (0-0), Diallo received a standing ovation from the Sunderland supporters when he was substituted, that says it all. In Scottish football, there is now another Man Utd talent who believes he is ready to play with the big boys.
Not all of Manchester United’s rental deals have worked out as planned. Harry Amass picked up an early injury at Norwich City and did not play, Ethan Wheatley and Gabriele Biancheri failed to make an impression at Bradford City and Rotherham. In comparison, Jacob Devaney’s move to St. Mirren has been a huge success.
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18-year-old Jacob Devaney scored on his debut for the Scottish Premier League side and has been a regular starter, with 14 appearances, including a cup semi-final against Celtic that went to extra time.
Although the Scottish season is not yet over, Devaney has his eye on Manchester United next season.
Manchester United need central midfielders, and Jacob Devaney wants to step into the void. Speaking to BBC Sport , Devaney spoke with confidence and ambition about the challenge and opportunities that lie ahead.
-Those games in the pre-season would definitely be something I would like to participate in. I feel like I’m at a stage now where I want to continue playing men’s football because I feel like I’ve proven that I can do it. I think I can play for Man United. It’s something I’ve worked on since I was knee-high, when I first started kicking a ball, it comes from the teenager.
And opportunities can come early for midfielders in the run-up. Kobbie Mainoo will be in the World Cup with England, and Manuel Ugarte with Uruguay. They will be the only two senior midfielders in the squad, as Casemiro is leaving the team.
Jacob Devaney has played fastball all his young life to take advantage of this opportunity.
