After back-to-back success stories from the academy in his first two years as boss, everyone is wondering if Ten Hag will have yet another prospect turn into a star.
Speaking in his first press conference of the new season at Carrington, the manager explained that he is also wondering about this.
“In every season, after a break, you will have surprises,” said Ten Hag.
“We’re looking forward, we’re so curious: who is it this season, the surprise who can contribute to our team?
“Like last year, Kobbie Mainoo, and Alejandro Garnacho coming up and playing a big role. They are the two goalscorers in the [Emirates FA Cup] final.
“Today, we started [training], but which player is there who can do the same?”
Who could follow Mainoo’s example?
This season there are a few options for those who could find themselves handed an important role at the club straight out of the academy and get their debut for the club.
Toby Collyer is one as he has already been tipped to follow in Mainoo’s footsteps. To add to this, after the FA Cup win he was spotted having a one-on-one talk with Ten Hag.
If it isn’t Collyer, Harry Amass will also be fancying his chances at making an impact on the senior side next season. This will be increasingly likely if no left-back is signed this summer.
