Manchester United’s history is as much about triumphs and titles as it is about the players who have donned the famous Red Devils jersey. Over the years, the club has given countless young talents the opportunity to shine, showcasing its commitment to nurturing youth.
Some have gone on to become legends, while others, though fleeting in their time at Old Trafford, left unforgettable impressions. Here’s a look at the 10 youngest players to ever play for Manchester United, their journeys, and their moments of glory.
Manchester United's 10 Youngest Footballers of All-Time
10. Cliff Birkett
17 years, 2 months, 15 days
Debut: December 2, 1950
Caps: 13
Position: Striker
Cliff Birkett’s time at Manchester United was brief, but his inclusion in this list is a testament to his early promise. Scoring twice in just 13 games, the striker’s career was a whirlwind that left fans curious about what might have been.
Though he never reached the heights of United’s all-time greats, Birkett’s story is a reminder of the club’s rich history of giving young players a chance.
9. Alex Dawson
17 years, 2 months, 1 day
Debut: April 22, 1957
Caps: 93
Position:
Alex Dawson, a key figure in Manchester United's post-Munich Air Disaster rebuild made 93 appearances for the club between 1957 and 1961, scoring 54 goals, including a famous hat-trick in the 1958 FA Cup semi-final against Fulham. Originally from Aberdeen, he was part of United's 1956 FA Youth Cup-winning team and made an impact early on, scoring on his debut at 18.
Dawson played a crucial role in United's recovery after the Munich tragedy, including scoring in the club's first match following the crash. He later moved to Preston North End, where he earned the nickname 'The Black Prince.' Dawson also played for Bury, Brighton, Brentford, and Corby Town before retiring in 1973.
8. Andy Ritchie
17 years, 28 days
Debut: December 26, 1977
Caps: 42
Position: Forward
Andy Ritchie’s journey at Man United began with immense promise and dazzling moments that etched his name in the club’s history as one of its youngest stars. Born in Manchester, Ritchie joined United as a teenager in 1977 and immediately showcased his prodigious talent.
Among his standout performances were two breathtaking hat-tricks—one against Leeds United at just 18 years old and another against Tottenham Hotspur a year later. Despite these feats, his time at Old Trafford ended unexpectedly when he was sold to Brighton & Hove Albion. Ritchie’s early exploits at United cemented his reputation as one of the most talented youngsters of his generation, blending natural flair with a knack for seizing big moments.
7. Shola Shoretire
17 years, 19 days
Debut: February 21, 2021
Caps: 5
Position: Attacking Midfielder/ Winger
Shola Shoretire’s rise through the ranks at Manchester United was nothing short of meteoric, marked by his incredible precocity and drive. At just 14 years and 314 days, he became the youngest-ever player to feature in the UEFA Youth League, showcasing his talent against older competition.
By 16, he was starring for the under-23s, including a remarkable hat-trick in a 6–4 win over Blackburn Rovers. Turning 17 in February 2021, Shoretire signed his first professional contract and soon made his first-team debut, replacing Marcus Rashford in a league victory over Newcastle United. Though his time at Old Trafford ended in July 2024, Shoretire’s achievements as a United youngster were proof of his early brilliance.
6. Norman Whiteside
16 years, 11 months, 17 days
Debut: April 24, 1982
Caps: 274
Position: Midfielder / Forward
Norman Whiteside was a player who defied convention. He was one of United’s most talented youngsters, making a significant impact from a young age. He debuted in 1982 at just 17, becoming the club’s youngest first-team player since Duncan Edwards. He also became the youngest player to appear in a World Cup match, representing Northern Ireland in 1982.
Whiteside quickly proved his ability at Old Trafford, scoring his first goal in a 2–0 win over Stoke City. His standout moments included becoming the youngest player to score in both the League Cup and FA Cup finals. Despite injury struggles, Whiteside’s early years at United were marked by impressive performances, exhibiting skill and maturity beyond his age.
5. Willie Anderson
16 years, 11 months, 4 days
Debut: December 28, 1963
Caps: 13
Position: Winger
Anderson joined Man United’s youth system at 15, despite being a boyhood fan of Liverpool. He impressed scouts while playing for Lancashire schoolboys and quickly earned a professional contract alongside George Best. At just 16, he made his debut in a 5–1 win over Burnley, becoming the youngest of his group to play for the first team.
However, competition for places, particularly with Best's arrival, limited his opportunities. Anderson made just a few more appearances before falling out of favour and eventually realising he wasn’t going to make a lasting impact at United.
4. Angel Gomes
16 years, 8 months, 20 days
Debut: May 21, 2017
Caps: 10
Position: Midfielder
Angel Gomes joined Manchester United’s youth system at six and quickly made an impact, debuting for the U18 team at 14. He captained the U15 team to an MVP award at the 2015 Manchester United Premier Cup and became the third youngest player in club history to score a hat-trick. Gomes made his first-team debut in May 2017 at 16.
Despite signing a professional contract in 2017 and scoring his first senior goal in 2019, he struggled for regular first-team opportunities and left the club in June 2020 after contract negotiations failed as he felt the club did not believe in him.
3. Duncan Edwards
16 years, 6 months, 4 days
Debut: April 4, 1953
Caps: 177
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Duncan Edwards began his journey with the Red Devils at a young age, making several appearances for the U18 team that won the first-ever FA Youth Cup in 1953. He made his first-team debut on April 4, 1953, at just 16 years old, becoming the youngest player to play in the First Division at the time.
As part of the legendary Busby Babes, Edwards quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in England. His performances for United and England were exceptional, helping the club win multiple league titles. Tragically, Edwards’ career was cut short in the Munich air disaster of 1958 at the age of 21, cementing his legacy as one of Manchester United’s all-time greats.
2. Jeff Whitefoot
16 years, 3 months, 15 days
Debut: April 15, 1950
Caps: 95
Jeff Whitefoot, a key member of the Busby Babes, made his debut for Manchester United at just 16 years old in April 1950. Known for his precise passing and intelligent reading of the game, he quickly became an essential part of United’s half-back line alongside Allenby Chilton and Duncan Edwards.
Although his time at United was shortened when Eddie Colman claimed his position, Whitefoot's talent remained undeniable. He moved to Nottingham Forest, where he won the FA Cup in 1959 and played nearly 300 games. Whitefoot later lived a quiet life, running a bookmaker’s and a pub, leaving a lasting legacy in football.
1. David Gaskell
16 years, 19 days
Debut: October 24, 1956
Caps: 120
David Gaskell’s journey began in 1956 when, at just 16 years and 19 days old, he was thrust into the spotlight. Called upon during the Charity Shield match against Manchester City, the teenager’s nerves were outweighed by his talent. The young goalkeeper went on to serve Manchester United faithfully, amassing 120 appearances.
He played a part in their league triumphs of 1965 and 1967, earning retrospective recognition in 2023. Gaskell’s story remains one of resilience, fighting for his spot amidst fierce competition during the club’s golden years.
From the heartache of lives and careers cut short to the triumphs that changed the club’s history, these 10 players capture the spirit of what it means to be a Red Devil.
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