“Commanding” 18-yo beast spotted in training as Carrick turns to academy to solve United injury crisis – report

Manchester United starlet Albert Mills’ ascension through the ranks at Old Trafford has taken the next step after the latest update from Carrington today. Man Mountain Mills has enjoyed a superb campaign for the Under-18s this season, delivering a series of commanding performances as the leader of the backline. The 18-year-old centre-back has made 17 starts for Darren Fletcher‘s side, while also featuring three times for the U-21s. Last month, he scored a towering header in the 4-1 demolition of Oxford United in the last sixteen of the FA Youth Cup – a tournament in which he has played every single minute so far. Despite only turning 18 at the end of February, Mills already possesses an imposing frame and has regularly dominated opposition forwards. However, the East Anglian native is also technically excellent, with an academy expert describing him as a “great ball playing defender” who possesses a “fantastic passing range and impressive carrying ability”. Modern football demands that centre-backs be strong in and out of possession, with Mills’ well-rounded skillset offering a clear pathway to United’s first team – as demonstrated by Michael Carrick‘s decision to include him in training today. Making the jump up The Manchester Evening News reports Mills was spotted at Carrington as Carrick and his coaching staff put the senior side through their paces ahead of a pivotal Premier League clash this week. United face Aston Villa at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon in a match which could prove decisive in the hunt for Champions League football next season. The Red Devils are currently third in the table, ahead of Villa on goal difference. Unai Emery’s side are in a poor run of form, though United fell to their first defeat under Carrick away to Newcastle last week. Fifth place is likely to be sufficient for qualification, given England’s strong coefficient ranking. However, Chelsea and Liverpool are also in the mix, with only three spaces available for the four teams. United will be without the experienced pairing of Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez, with both centre-backs ruled out with injury. This will have led to Carrick’s decision to draft in Mills into first-team training. Academy sensation JJ Gabriel, who has scored 20 goals in 22 games for the U-18s this year, was also spotted at Carrington as the 15-year-old forward’s light continues to shine brightly. Featured image Alex Livesey 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 Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.