The Busby Babes. The class of 92. Manchester United have a tradition of promoting youth. Mason Greenwood is next in their production line. Their attitude over the years has been if you are good enough you are old enough. In recent times Scott McTominay, Marcus Rashford and Andres Pereira have broken into the First Team. Jose Mourinho might not have the best reputation for promoting youth players but Mason Greenwood will be hard to ignore.
Overview
Mason Greenwood began his career in midfield pushing forward as a number 10. Last season, he evolved into a striker and scored 17 goals in 17 appearances. He was selected for Manchester Uniteds pre-season tour in the United States making his first appearance in the 1-1 draw with Club America. He was the top scorer in the Under-18 Premier League North despite being two years below the age group. Still only 17, he signed his first professional contract in October and has also represented England at youth level.
Goal-scoring ability
17 goals in 17 games is a good return at any level. Impressively, Mason Greenwood achieved this when he was 16 in a league with players two years his senior. He has now stepped up to the UEFA Youth League squad at under 19 level but what makes his finishing ability so impressive?
Earlier this month, Manchester United under 19s beat Valencia under 19s 4-0. Mason Greenwood got on the score sheet and showed how he has merged his natural ability as a midfielder into his new striking role.
Arriving late into the penalty area
Mason Greenwoods ability to arrive late into the penalty area is reminiscent of Wayne Rooney. Whilst it is too early to be comparing him with the England legend, this goal shows similar ability. Mason Greenwood allows the number 9 (highlighted in a white oval) to create space ahead of him whilst he awaits the pullback from the right wing. The number 9 has pulled the defenders away from the space. This then creates enough space for Mason Greenwood to score. His ability to delay his run and use intelligence to recognise the space was key to this goal.
Close range finishing
However,
