Official: United confirm recall of lethal academy forward from loan spell

Manchester United have announced that forward Ethan Wheatley has been recalled from his loan spell at Northampton Town. Wheatley at Northampton Having joined Northampton in the summer to gain first-team experience, Wheatley managed 25 appearances for the side. He endured a slow start to life with the Cobblers but his form eventually picked up and he scored three goals for the League One outfit. The initial plan was for Wheatley to spend the entire 2025/26 campaign with Northampton but as with all United loanees, the agreement included an option for the Red Devils to bring him back to Old Trafford in January. This has now been exercised. Wheatley’s recall follows those of Toby Collyer (from West Brom), Sonny Aljofree (Notts County), and Louis Jackson (Solihull Moors). Wheatley’s last appearance for Northampton was in their final game of 2025, a 2-0 loss at the hands of Huddersfield Town. Reaction to Wheatley’s recall Upon confirmation of his recall, Wheatley said [via the Northampton Chronicle], “I have loved my time at Northampton Town.” “I’m very grateful to the manager and the staff who put their trust in me and helped me every single day, both on and off the pitch.” “I’d also like to thank the supporters for their backing home and away who have been superb this season. It has also been a pleasure sharing the dressing room with a great group of lads and I wish the club and everyone connected with it all the very best for the future.” Northampton boss Kevin Nolan remarked, “We are disappointed Ethan has been recalled but we are proud of the work we have done with him and believe he leaves us a far better player than he arrived.” “We thank Manchester United for loaning Ethan to us and wish him well for his future career.” The BBC note that Wheatley is expected to go out somewhere else for the second half of the season. Featured image Pete Norton via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Latest Top Stories… Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!