TRA x FA Youth Cup
Manchester United’s FA Youth Cup-winning Under-18s side were presented with scarves post-match at Old Trafford as part of a fan-led initiative showing the admiration they have for our young players.
Goals from Rhys Bennett and Alejandro Garnacho (2) contributed to a 3-1 victory over Nottingham Forest in the final last week, as United won the prestigious competition for a record-extending 11th time.
A colossal 67,492-strong crowd was present for a magical Old Trafford night. As head of Academy Nick Cox wrote in an open letter to United fans the day after the match: “You have had a genuine impact on youth development with such an incredible display of support.”
As the players celebrated their achievement afterwards, with a slide in front of the Stretford End and then the trophy lift, they met a group of young Reds.
Children of fans from The Red Army - a section of supporters who occupy the area close to the tunnel - met a large group of the U18s squad, presenting the players with scarves and posing for pictures.
The initiative was designed to help continue to create a lasting bond between players and fans at United, starting at an early age, whether as a player or fan.
The activity follows a range of projects taken by the club to benefit our young supporters including half-priced season tickets for under 16s and the introduction of a specific youth season ticket for 16-25 year olds at a reduced price.
All have of this is done with the intention of ensuring the legacy of support is passed down the generations in an accessible way.
A night for the ages
GalleryYouth was the Cup, youthful was the crowd at a packed Old Trafford...
The result is nights like last Wednesday at Old Trafford, where a crowd of United fans, young and old, gave the Under-18s team a platform on which to enjoy success.
Everyone at the Academy is deeply appreciative of the level of support shown, and particularly of The Red Army group, who drove the atmosphere during the game and pushed the players on.