A former Manchester United scout has launched a stinging critique of the club's talent identification and youth development strategy, highlighting one transfer in particular that he brands a 'huge mistake'.
The One That Got Away: Alvaro Carreras
Piotr Sadowski, who served as a Central European scout for the Red Devils for seven-and-a-half years until his recent departure, pinpointed the sale of left-back Alvaro Carreras as a prime example of the club's flawed judgement. Sadowski revealed that United sold the Spanish defender to Benfica for a 'minuscule fee' after a promising loan spell at Preston North End.
This decision has come back to haunt the club spectacularly. In a stunning summer transfer, Carreras secured a blockbuster move to Real Madrid for a reported £44 million (€50 million). The 22-year-old has since flourished under manager Xabi Alonso, making 12 appearances and scoring his debut goal for Los Blancos against Valencia earlier this month.
'Carreras is a truly top-class player,' Sadowski stated in an interview with Polish outlet Przeglad Sportowy. 'There's a good chance he'll become the best, or one of the best, left-backs in the world.'
A System 'Lacking in Courage'
Sadowski's criticism extends beyond a single transfer, targeting the club's overarching philosophy towards its academy graduates. He described Manchester United as 'lacking in courage' in their commitment to creating a clear pathway from the youth sides to Ruben Amorim's first team.
This is evidenced by the current squad composition, where 20-year-old Kobbie Mainoo stands as the only academy player in Amorim's core group. There were even reports that Mainoo himself was keen on a move away from Old Trafford during the summer transfer window.
'Something is missing here and I think that something is United's lack of courage in investing in young players,' Sadowski concluded.
Questionable Signings and a Glimmer of Hope
While Amorim has brought in several young players like Benjamin Sesko and Diego Leon, Sadowski was critical of one specific purchase. He labelled the signing of Patrick Dorgu, a 20-year-old who joined for £25 million last January, as poor value.
'Honestly, having recently worked at Blackburn Rovers and operating on a much lower transfer budget, I would have had no problem finding a few players of Dorgu's level for United, but for £25m, you could get four,' the scout argued.
However, Sadowski did identify one bright spot currently out on loan: Harry Amass. The left-back, mirroring Carreras's position, is at Sheffield Wednesday and has already scored his first Championship goal. Sadowski believes Amorim should take a chance on him, suggesting that the solution to United's problems might already be within their grasp, if only they had the courage to use it.
