Ex-Man Utd player opens up on the 'pressure' of wearing the club shirt

Alba Romero 1 month ago 1.9k |

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Gomes made only ten first-team appearances before leaving Man United. AFP

Angel Gomes, a product of Manchester United's renowned academy, has opened up about the pressures players face at Old Trafford, suggesting that the legendary club's reputation can sometimes work against young talents trying to establish themselves.

Having joined the Red Devils at just six years old, Gomes made history by becoming the youngest player to appear for the first team since Duncan Edwards when he debuted at 16 in 2017.

Despite showing promise, the 24-year-old made only ten first-team appearances before leaving the Red Devils on a free transfer to Lille in 2020.

Now 24, the England international has reflected on why some players struggle to meet expectations at Manchester United but thrive once they move on. Speaking to the BBC, the player pointed to the "weight of the shirt" as a significant factor that can intimidate even the most gifted footballers.

"Some players don't fully appreciate the pressure and what the shirt demands," he explained. "It's not just about ability but also about the environment, timing, and support structures around you."

He added that players who have flourished after leaving United likely found conditions more suited to their development elsewhere. "It's not always simply that they failed at United; sometimes it's about the right setup being in place at the right club at the right moment."

The midfielder's insights come amid a trend of former United players finding success abroad this season, with recent examples including Antony and Scott McTominay excelling at Real Betis and Napoli, respectively.