Rising Red Devils: United Consider Surprise First-Team Promotions for Two Breakout Starlets
Manchester United are quietly preparing for a significant shift in their squad planning, as two of their most promising academy products — Harry Amass and Radek Vitek — edge closer to earning a place in the senior team next season. Their performances on loan in the Championship have not only impressed scouts but have forced their way into the conversation at Carrington, where the club is focusing on rebuilding its identity around youthful talent.
Harry Amass, the highly rated 18-year-old left-back, has been a standout performer since joining Sheffield Wednesday on loan. Despite the club’s challenging situation — starting the season on minus four points due to administration issues — Amass has shown maturity far beyond his age. He has started every match since arriving on deadline day, demonstrating consistency, resilience, and an ability to perform under pressure. His development comes at a crucial time for United, whose left-hand side needs reinforcement after new signing Patrick Dorgu failed to make an impact and young Diego Leon continues his growth with the U21s.
Meanwhile, Radek Vitek, the 22-year-old goalkeeper, has emerged as one of the Championship’s most reliable shot-stoppers in his loan spell at Bristol City. Starting all 15 of their matches, he currently sits joint-third in the league’s clean sheet rankings. Vitek’s composure, distribution, and commanding presence have caught the attention of United’s staff — particularly as the club faces decisions regarding its goalkeeping department. With Altay Bayindir expected to be sold due to persistent errors and Tom Heaton nearing retirement age, United must decide whether Vitek is ready to take the next step or whether they should capitalize on his rising market value.
For United, these decisions extend beyond simple squad depth. The club has been reshaping its academy strategy, inserting sell-on clauses and buy-back options into outgoing deals to maintain long-term control over their youth products. Both Amass and Vitek fit into this evolving philosophy: talented, marketable, and able to influence the club’s future direction.
Amass, who joined from Watford at just 16 and won the Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year award last season, has long been viewed as one of United’s brightest prospects. He impressed during the 2024 pre-season tour in the United States, although then-manager Erik ten Hag felt he needed more time before entering the senior setup. Under Ruben Amorim, however, United’s academy is expected to play a more prominent role — a shift that could finally pave the way for Amass and Vitek to break through.
Both players remain under contract until 2027, giving United time and flexibility as they evaluate their long-term roles. Crucially, neither is expected to be recalled in January, meaning they will have the full season to continue their impressive development before the club makes a final decision next summer.
