Manchester United scouts keeping close tabs on prodigious Gambian teenager

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Sep 13, 2025 4:13 AM ET

Manchester United are keeping tabs on the progress of Gambian teenage sensation Musa Ann

The first image that comes to mind when you hear the name Manchester United is that of a club that believes in youth. The “Busby Babes” showed the world in the 1950s, with their energy and passion, that young people can also do wonders on the big stage. Even after the tragic Munich Air Disaster, the club did not give up and made history by winning the 1968 European Cup with a new generation. Then, in the era of Sir Alex Ferguson, the “Class of ’92” emerged, and players like David Beckham, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes became the backbone of the team.

This tradition continued with Marcus Rashford and Scott McTominay, and the inclusion of at least one academy graduate in every match since 1937 has kept this culture alive. In this vein, even today the club keeps an eye on talented new players.

United are eyeing Musa Ann

Football Insider reports that Manchester United scouts recently visited emerging centre-back Musa Ann at Samger FC in Gambia. The 6-foot-2-inch player is not only physically strong but also very mature in defence for his age. Samger FC nurture talent, and their nickname “The Academy Boys” reflects this tradition. Several clubs in Europe are keeping an eye on Ann, but United may try to bring him to England and sign him before their rivals. Reports also suggest that he has already impressed United scouts and his development will be closely monitored in the future.

Thoughts:

United’s philosophy has always been clear: the club does not just buy talent but nurtures it. The club has carried this approach forward. Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are the best examples of this. Mainoo gave the team a new direction with his creativity in the midfield, while Garnacho rescued the team from difficult situations many times from the wing. However, Garnacho’s recent move to Chelsea and Mainoo’s dissatisfaction have raised some questions. That is why the management is in no hurry and has made it clear that Manchester United will not sell Mainoo until they find a suitable replacement.

United’s academy system has produced players like Paul Pogba and Anthony Elanga, who later joined other clubs. Pogba has now moved to Monaco, and Elanga is playing at Newcastle United. This is why, when a player from Samger FC looks towards Old Trafford, it is not just a transfer but the beginning of a tradition.

The same can be said for Musa Ann, who could be the next to carry on that legacy if United manage to bring him to England. Many players from Africa have made their mark at United, and Ann could be the latest in that chain. Sekou Kone came from Guidars FC last year, performed brilliantly in the Under-21s, and earned a spot on the senior bench from Amorim. That path could open the door for Ann, too. As supporters, it is a matter of pride to see that United don’t just chase big stars but also value the players who can shape the future. This habit sets the club apart and gives hope that young players will continue to shine at Old Trafford for years to come.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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