Erik ten Hag has indicated that Harry Amass could follow in the footsteps of Kobbie Mainoo by making his way into Manchester United’s squad this season, although the manager cautioned that the 17-year-old left-back still needs to hone his “significant talent”.
With Luke Shaw’s ongoing injury issues and Tyrell Malacia, his backup at left-back, sidelined for an additional two months due to a knee injury, a path has emerged for Amass, who joined from Watford last August.
After making his full Premier League debut in a 3-0 victory over Everton in November, Mainoo secured his position as a first-choice player and went on to impress with England at Euro 2024.
Ten Hag remarked: “He is not quite at the same level as Mainoo was at this time, but with effective training and coaching, it’s possible for him to reach that point in three months. However, he still needs to develop some essential skills to play for Manchester United while competing for top positions in the league.
“With exceptional talent, progress can come rapidly, and it will be intriguing to see if he can achieve this.”
Amass has made a strong impression during United’s summer tour in the US, showcasing his physicality, technique, and attacking drive. In a 3-2 victory over Real Betis at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, he assisted Amad Diallo’s goal with a well-placed cross from the left and also made strong tackles against Rodri and Héctor Bellerín.
Amass reflected on his opportunity in the tour, stating: “It’s probably happened quicker than I anticipated. But that’s the nature of the game; injuries occur and you have to seize your chance when it arises.”
When asked about his assist and tackling, he commented: “I enjoyed it. You have to show your aggressive side – you may be young and smaller than the opponent, but it’s important to demonstrate aggression and not back down.
“There haven’t been any discussions yet [with Ten Hag], but this pre-season is my opportunity to prove that I can deliver if selected. We’ll see what happens when Luke and Tyrell return, but I aim to play first-team football at this club. If the opportunity arises, I must seize it; it could be pivotal for my career.”
The 18-year-old forward Ethan Wheatley and 20-year-old defensive midfielder Toby Collyer are also on the tour. The hamstring injury suffered by Rasmus Højlund, Ten Hag’s first-choice striker, which will sideline him for six weeks, along with Casemiro’s advancing age, may also open doors for them.
Wheatley stated: “Seeing players like Kobbie, who were with us less than a year ago and are now in the first team, inspires and motivates us because we know there is a pathway. If we make a strong impression and receive opportunities at this club, we will take them.”
Ten Hag was present for the announcement of Collyer’s new contract earlier this month. “That was a huge boost. It clearly indicates that he values me as a player. It’s all about moving forward; I just have to give my best every day and see where it leads,” he said.
