Frank Christian
Manchester United is facing several challenges this season. Currently sitting in 14th place after seven games in the 2024/25 Premier League season, they have yet to secure a win in their two UEFA Europa League matches, putting manager Erik ten Hag under considerable scrutiny.
The team is also grappling with numerous injuries, particularly on the defensive front and notably at left-back. Neither Luke Shaw nor Tyrell Malacia has participated in any games this season, with Malacia sidelined since summer 2023. Additionally, Noussair Mazraoui has joined the injury list following heart surgery.
Ten Hag urgently needs solutions in defense as he gears up for upcoming matches against Brentford, Fenerbahce, and West Ham post international break. After dealing with similar injury troubles last season—prompting the short-term loan signing of Sergio Reguilon—he is eager to have his players back in action as soon as possible.
However, there may be a potential solution within the club’s ranks in the form of talented academy player Harry Amass, who is expected to make his mark this season.
Getting to Know Harry Amass
Harry Amass is a promising 17-year-old left-back who joined Manchester United from Watford in summer 2023, where he had spent seven years and built a reputation as one of England’s most exciting young prospects. Born in London, Amass has represented various England youth teams from Under-15s to Under-18s. While he hasn’t yet appeared for the senior squad, he has been included in matchday selections and trains regularly with the first team at Carrington.
Amass has had notable performances with United’s Under-21s in the EFL Trophy against teams like Barnsley and Doncaster Rovers and played a key role in the Under-18s’ successful title win in the 2023/24 season.
Erik ten Hag’s Thoughts on Harry Amass
During United’s 2024 preseason tour in the United States, Amass caught the eye of Ten Hag, receiving commendation for his skill. When comparing Amass to Kobbie Mainoo, who had a standout debut season, Ten Hag was asked if Amass could follow suit.
He stated: “He is not as far along as Mainoo was at this moment, but if we train him effectively, he might get to that point in a few months. Right now, though, he needs to catch up and develop skills to compete for Manchester United at the highest level. With his immense talent, progress can be rapid, so it will be interesting to see how he develops.”
Some clips of Harry Amass today vs City
Signed from Watford in 2023. One of the standout U18s players this season. Lots of promising attributes. pic.twitter.com/WiuM37IfaG
— Academy Arena (@academyarenaUTD) January 20, 2024
With Shaw and Malacia injured, could Amass step in for United in the near future? Recent reports suggest that Ten Hag might still be hesitant and is considering Jonny Evans as a makeshift left-back.
Those who’ve seen Amass in the youth teams won’t doubt his talent, as fans advocate for the 17-year-old to be promoted to the first team. His playing style has even drawn parallels to Luke Shaw’s.
In the summer, Amass shared, “No discussions have taken place yet. We’ll see what occurs when Luke and Tyrell return, but I aim to play first-team football here. If an opportunity arises, I must seize it—it could change my career.”
Current Injury Updates for Manchester United
As it stands, the main injury concerns for United include Mainoo, Shaw, and Malacia.
Mainoo missed out on playing for England in their UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Finland due to an injury sustained against Aston Villa prior to the international break.
Ten Hag expressed hope that Shaw would return following the international break, saying, “At this moment, I cannot provide a definite answer, but we have two and a half weeks to work towards his return definitely soon thereafter.”
Malacia is making progress towards his return from a serious knee injury, though the club is being cautious with his recovery. Additionally, new signing Leny Yoro is also out for an extended period.
With Mazraoui’s condition leaving Diogo Dalot as the only fit senior full-back, could this be Amass’s chance to shine?
