Not JJ Gabriel: Ruben Amorim in love with Man Utd wonderkid

Tom Weber
Tom Weber
  • Updated: 28 Oct 2025 16:53 GMT
  • 6 min read
Ruben Amorim, Man Utd
© IMAGO

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has been left very impressed by Shea Lacey in first-team training, according to a report.

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The Red Devils' head coach has come in for criticism this season for his refusal to give young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo ample opportunity to showcase his skills, but Amorim has tried to make an effort to promote youth since he arrived.

The Portuguese gave new signings Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi minutes in the second half of last season, and he promoted 17-year-old Godwill Kukonki to senior training over the summer.

Current ETV
Player image Shea Lacey
Shea Lacey

M (R)

Man Utd U18 logo

Man Utd U18

Shea Lacey
Shea Lacey

M (R)

Man Utd U18

Man Utd U18

€0.7M

ETV Range

€0.5M - €0.9M

More recently, JJ Gabriel has made waves for taking part in an 11v11 game in training. The 15-year-old 'Kid Messi' is regarded as the biggest prospect in Man Utd's academy.

Another youngster who has been given opportunities to show his talents against the pros is Shea Lacey, and the 18-year-old is said to have left a big impression on Amorim.

Lacey standing out in training

At least that is according to GIVEMESPORT, which reports that Lacey is frequently standing out in training as one of the best young performers.

The winger is an England U20 international and has scored twice in four appearances in the Premier League 2 this season. Lacey is also eligible to play for the Republic of Ireland.

The report quotes a source close to the team as saying: “Training’s got a real spark to it again. The young lads aren’t there just to make up the numbers - Amorim wants them learning the standards and pushing for places.”

Regarding Lacey in particular, the source said: “He’s been tearing it up - fearless, creative, and always looking to make something happen. He’s really caught the eye.”

It is believed that the youngster could be rewarded with his senior debut at some point this season, although it is emphasised that Lacey is far from the only teenager to have left Amorim impressed in training.

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