In a few weeks, Shea Lacey, the wonderkid for Manchester United, will sign his first professional contract.
One of the most intriguing players in the Red Devils academy, the 16-year-old winger has been dubbed by supporters as the team’s Lionel Messi.
3Shea Lacey is set to sign his first professional contract in a few weeksCredit: Getty
3Lacey has been dubbed United’s ‘answer to Lionel Messi’Credit: Getty
The 16-year-old, who plays in United’s academy, has gained popularity on social media.Credit: Getty Lacey, whose 17th birthday is quickly approaching, agreed to sign a professional contract in addition to accepting a scholarship offer from the club.
Although he has only made eight appearances this season owing to an injury, the youthful player has been compared to Phil Foden.
Before Lacey signed the contract with the Red Devils in August 2023, there was significant interest from United’s rival teams in England and Europe.
After Lacey turns 17 on April 14, his new contract will be revealed to acknowledge his advancement through the club’s program.The teenager, who was born in Merseyside, was raised by Liverpool supporters, but he also loves Manchester United and is a huge Messi admirer.
Social media users have been sharing videos of Lacey playing for United’s academy for the past few years.
Fans referred to him as “Man Utd’s answer to Lionel Messi” after his astonishing performance against Wolves in the previous season.
Before suffering an injury in the fall, Lacey participated in three UEFA Youth League games for the U19 team this season.He entered the match against Galatasaray for the final half hour, and he helped them win 3-0, setting up a goal for Omari Forson and coming close to scoring with a free kick of his own.After defender Harry Amass, Lacey will be the next academy product to acquire a professional contract.
Following in the footsteps of Amass, 17, Bendito Mantato, 16, and Amir Ibragimov, 15, Lacey will now train with the senior team..