A big part of Manchester United’s success comes from the youth system that has produced legends such as Bobby Charlton, George Best, Ryan Giggs, and Paul Scholes.
The United youth system has been such a big factor, that there has been a youth graduate in the United starting lineup for a stretch of over 3,600 competitive matches.
As United come off one of their worst seasons in club history, a new era begins under manager Louis Van Gaal. With the new United boss hinting that he wants some first team players to leave the squad, current youth players have the chance to make an impression on Van Gaal and get a chance to play on the first team.
Based on skill level and availability, the following three Manchester United youth players have a great chance of seeing some first-team action for this upcoming 2014-2015 season, and being impact players for the club in the years to come.
MARNICK VERMIJL
The Belgian right-back has been a reserve for the United squad for the past three seasons. His consistency in the position for reserve manager Warren Joyce’s lineups shows that he has the confidence and maturity to further develop his abilities. Vermijl is in a great position, as van Gaal looks to find a right-back or right wingback after losing Rafael to a groin injury during the United preseason tour. The time is right for the 21-year old to step up and show that he can play in Van Gal’s 3-5-2 formation.
SKILL LEVEL: 70%
Vermajil can be a more complete defender by being more assertive with the ball at his feet. The young right-back needs to develop his passing skills in time for the start of the season. Sometimes the Belgian likes to dump the ball back to the goalkeeper or to the sides, without looking at his options down the field. However, his quick feet help the 21-year old keep himself in front of defenders, as he does not dive into tackles often, but rather stands tall and gains possession of the ball.
AVAILABILITY LEVEL: 80%
As a right-back, Vermijl will have to quickly learn and adapt to the formation implemented by Van Gaal. Known for his strong concentration and focus, Vermijl will have to show that he can not only be a strong defender, but a steady attacker by playing at his best against stiff Premier League competition.
Click on No. 2 below to see the next youth player
