Manchester United academy defender added to Champions League squad

Manchester United’s European campaign is creating opportunities for academy players to move closer to the senior dressing room.

Injuries have forced Michael Carrick to consider younger options as he manages the demands of competing across multiple competitions.

United’s academy has historically provided a pathway for emerging talents, with players often getting their first taste of senior football through training opportunities and matchday call-ups.

For young defenders in particular, those opportunities can be valuable when established first-team players are unavailable.

Carrington has already seen several prospects train with the senior squad as they attempt to catch the manager’s attention.

One promising centre-back has now taken another step towards potentially featuring in a Champions League match.

Manchester United academy defender added to Champions League squad

According to Samuel Luckhurst on X, Manchester United have added academy defender Albert Mills to their Champions League B list ahead of today’s clash with Como, just hours after he played 72 minutes for the Under-19s against the same opposition.

Albert Mills featured in the UEFA Youth League encounter in Italy, where United’s youngsters suffered a 2-1 defeat.

Como raced into a two-goal lead through Matteo Papaccioli and Matteo Albini before Jack Fletcher pulled one back shortly after half-time.

Despite a stronger second-half display, United could not find an equaliser, leaving Adam Lawrence’s side with more work to do in the competition.

The call-up represents another milestone for a defender who has spent much of his life at United.

Raised in Chorlton, Mills joined the club’s academy as an eight-year-old and has progressed through the youth ranks.

He primarily plays at centre-back and was shortlisted for the Under-18 Premier League Player of the Season award for 2025/26.

He also started both the Under-18 Premier League Cup and FA Youth Cup finals at the end of that season.

Mills has already gained experience around the senior squad, training at Carrington under both Ruben Amorim and Carrick.

United offered him a new contract during the summer as they looked to secure the future of one of their promising defensive prospects.

The Champions League B list allows eligible academy-developed players to be registered separately from the main squad list.

Mills’ inclusion does not guarantee minutes, but it puts him in contention.