“I have watched him closely when he was away on loan and I must say he is ready for the first team. His abilities perfectly overshadow Onana’s inconsistency. Having such a young keeper would be risky but I’m sure the results would be amazing” – This is according to Ruben Amorim as Manchester United have made the decision to recall a highly talented player and accelerate their integration into the first team, with manager Ruben Amorim taking a daring approach.

Promising young goalkeeper Elyh Harrison has been recalled by Manchester United from his loan spell at Chester FC and will now spend the rest of the season with Ruben Amorim’s first-team squad.

The club views the 18-year-old as a potential future No. 1 and plans to provide him with senior experience alongside his involvement in academy matches in the coming months.

Harrison initially joined Chester in August to gain his first exposure to senior football in the National League North, England’s sixth tier. During his time there, the teenager impressed by starting 18 league matches, conceding only 16 goals and securing seven clean sheets, quickly endearing himself to fans.

The partnership between United and Chester has been highly successful, with Harrison’s loan spell widely regarded as a triumph. Chester manager Calum McIntyre expressed his gratitude for Harrison’s contributions, praising his performances and potential.

“Elyh has been outstanding for us, and we are extremely grateful for his efforts in the first half of the season,” McIntyre stated. “He has shown remarkable talent at just 18 years old, becoming the youngest goalkeeper to play for our club at this level. His bright future in football is undeniable, and we are proud to have been part of his journey into senior football.”

McIntyre also thanked Manchester United for trusting Chester with Harrison’s development and wished the goalkeeper success as he transitions back to his parent club.

After joining United from Stevenage Town on a scholarship deal, Harrison signed his first professional contract in March 2023. His talent was further recognized last season when he became only the second goalkeeper to win the prestigious Denzil Haroun Reserve Player of the Year award since its inception in 1990.

Although Andre Onana remains United’s first-choice goalkeeper, Harrison’s recall provides Amorim an opportunity to assess the youngster before potentially arranging another loan move to a higher-level club in the summer. With Tom Heaton expected to leave as a free agent and Altay Bayindir potentially seeking regular playing time, Harrison’s development is seen as key to United’s future plans in the goalkeeper department.