Official: United pull promising academy duo from tough loan spells as fresh batch returns to Carrington

Manchester United have confirmed that academy players Joe Hugill and Habeeb Ogunneye have returned to the club from their respective loan spells. Several United youngsters return United are not expected to be active this month in terms of signings, but there is still some business to do, especially with the youngsters. During the summer, the club loaned several promising youngsters to lower league outfits for first-team experience. Their fortunes have since diverged. While some like Harry Amass and Dan Gore have thrived at Sheffield Wednesday and Rotherham United respectively, others have found the going tough. Facing limited minutes or recurring fitness issues, some of United’s loanees have required the club to step in and reassess their situations. Toby Collyer (West Brom), Sonny Aljofree (Notts County) and Louis Jackson (Solihull Moors) have all returned to Old Trafford. United also recalled Ethan Wheatley from Northampton Town but it’s understood the forward is in line to join Bradford City before the close of the winter window. Goalkeeper Elyh Harrison is another who is poised to return to United. Now, United have confirmed that two more players have come back – Hugill and Ogunneye. Hugill and Ogunneye update United have released a statement saying, “Two Manchester United youngsters have returned to Carrington, after being recalled from their loan spells.” “Joe Hugill and Habeeb Ogunneye are back in the fold, following their time away this season.” “Both Academy players will have learned from their experiences, as we welcome them back to their parent club.” Hugill managed just five League Two appearances for Barnet and didn’t score a goal or assist. He was kept out of the team for a large chunk of his time there due to injury. Meanwhile, Ogunneye turned out 15 times in League Two for Newport County. The defender scored his first senior goal in a meeting with Milton Keynes Dons in August. Newport County would like to thank Habeeb Ogunneye for his efforts during his loan spell at Rodney Parade. The defender has now returned to Manchester United, and everyone at the club wishes him the very best for the future🧡 🔗 https://t.co/qeyFV4r5tX#OneClubOneCounty pic.twitter.com/T0s2ETxktP — Newport County (@NewportCounty) January 14, 2026 It remains to be seen whether Hugill or Ogunneye will be kept at United or the club will try to loan them out again for the remainder of the campaign. Featured image Carl Recine 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 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!