With the perennial pre-season festivities in the history books, Manchester United are preparing for a Community Shield outing and Harry Amass has played himself into consideration.
The teenager featured across all five summer outings, providing a small sample of his undeniable skillset.
While Erik ten Hag has publicly acknowledged a necessity for improvement, his regular appearances will undoubtedly have left the Dutchman smiling.
Given the struggles faced on the left flank through various injuries, the 17-year-old offers a youthful option during periods of uncertainty, with Ten Hag keen to retain his services for the upcoming campaign.
But who is the latest prospect to emerge from the famous academy, and what can we expect in moving forward?
A prestigious development
The Londoner earned plaudits from a very young age, starting his journey to Manchester at the tender age of nine with Watford’s academy.
His rise through the various youth ranks was meticulously planned and executed through notable performances annually.
As we know, the ethos of being good enough regardless of your age is championed at the Theatre of Dreams, and Amass earned his first-team call-up for the Hornets in January 2023 at only 15.
Although he did not feature, his inclusion was a remarkable show of faith and a reward for his six-year development at the club.
Internationally, his star was also growing with representation for the English U15 side.
One month after his senior call-up, the left-back participated in a UEFA development tournament for the U16 team – supplying a combination of defensive artistry and attacking brilliance.
His performances earned tournament recognition en route to England’s victory in Cyprus.
Inevitably, his growth from academy to first-team aroused the attention of the Premier League’s major sides, with United joined by Chelsea and Arsenal for his signature.
But, despite the allure of a senior contract offer at Watford, the prospect of joining Manchester United could not be ignored.
Making the move to the North West
Having impressed Stephen Ajewole with his ability, Nick Cox and Luke Fedorenko confirmed the move to Manchester in August 2023.
Amass immediately shone in the U18 side before debuting for the U21s against Middlesbrough in March.
Much like his time at Vicarage Road, his progression has been swift – with several appearances on the first-team bench towards the end of the season.
His development paved the way for a move for Alvaro Fernandez, with Carrington officials viewing the teen as a natural successor to Luke Shaw.
Impressing on tour
With five appearances under his belt throughout pre-season, Amass has convinced many of his suitability to feature immediately.
Whilst his skillset is undeniable, and his potential is immense, the manager acknowledges the necessity for time.
“We have to make progress, but we all see here a potential where we have seen in previous years,” Ten Hag told the club’s official website.
“For instance, two years ago, [Alejandro] Garnacho last season. We had it during last season with Kobbie [Mainoo], but he is not that far now at this moment.
“Yet, if we train him well, if we coach him well, then, in three months, it’s possible that he can be on that point.
“But, in this moment, he needs to catch up, and he has to develop some skills already to play for Manchester United, competing for the highest positions in the league.
“But, with big talent, it can go up very quickly, and that is very interesting to see if he is capable of doing this.”
Harry is a technically gifted defender with the physicality to impose himself despite his age.
He possesses notable acceleration and pace, with an unyielding desire to maraud up and down the touchline – similar to Shaw.
Style and grace with grit and determination, as well as a mature head on teenage shoulders – are just some of the words I have received when speaking with individuals at Carrington.
Nothing in football is guaranteed, but in Harry Amass – Manchester United has a potential star for a decade.
How do you feel about the youngster?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
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