Manchester United youngster Angel Gomes signs first professional contract
By Matthew Treadwell
Last Updated: 13/12/17 9:56pm
Manchester United midfielder Angel Gomes has signed his first professional contract with the club.
The 17-year-old, who made his first-team debut as a substitute in the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in the final Premier League game of last season, has come through United's academy.
Gomes was part of England's U17's World Cup winning team over the summer and he is now keen to establish himself as a first-team regular at Old Trafford.
"Manchester United has always been a big part of my life," he told the club's official website.
"I have been with the club since the age of six and it was a proud moment for me when I made my first team debut.
"This club is renowned for giving home-grown players opportunities to progress into the first team and that was a major factor in me signing my first professional contract at this great club.
"I am still young but am looking forward to continuing my development with the help of the coaching staff and I will take every opportunity that comes my way."
United manager Jose Mourinho is also pleased Gomes has committed his future to the club, having been given the opportunity to impress at a young age.
"I am delighted that Angel has signed his first professional contract with the club," he said.
"I gave him his first-team debut at the end of last season which made him not only the youngest Manchester United player to play in the Premier League era but also the youngest player to represent Manchester United since Duncan Edwards in 1953."
Meanwhile, Nicky Butt, head of coaching at Manchester United's academy, predicted Gomes will have a "very bright future" in football.
"Angel has gone from strength to strength in his development and we are all pleased that he has signed his professional contract with Manchester United," said Butt.
"He is still very young and has a good aptitude for learning; coupled with his natural talent, we can see that Angel has a very bright future."
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