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Monday 09 December 2024 15:35
Join Manchester United’s trailblazing Under-19s as they break new ground and represent the club on uncharted territory in Lifeblood: Reds in Europe, the exciting new instalment in MUTV’s popular Academy documentary series.
This episode marks the first addition to the Lifeblood series since Climbing the Mountain, which offered an access-all-areas look at the Under-18s’ unprecedented trio of trophies in 2023/24. Pipping rivals Manchester City to both the northern title and U18 Premier League, the remarkable season culminated in victory in the national league final at Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge in May. That victory secured not only more silverware but a coveted spot in the UEFA Youth League, Europe’s elite competition at this age group.
For the first time, United entered the tournament via the ‘Domestic Champions Path’, setting the stage for an exciting clash with FK Žalgiris of Lithuania. This was more than just a game—it was a historic moment as Adam Lawrence’s dynamic squad became the first United team to represent the club in Lithuania.
‘Reds in Europe’ picks up where ‘Climbing the Mountain’ left off, following Lawrence’s high-flying charges as they faced FK Zalgiris of Lithuania. While a crucial development opportunity for the young Reds, it was also a piece of history: no United side had previously played a competitive fixture in Lithuania.
“We were aware we were pioneers,” reflects Steve Higham, Head of Academy Operations.
PIONEERS IN VILNIUS
So it is that you’ll get to know members of the official Lithuanian Supporters’ Club, who are devoted Reds in a country better known for its basketball passion.
“Lithuania is a country of basketball, but there are some true guys who support football,” jokes Karolis, the oldest member, with an encyclopaedic United knowledge.
“Football is such a beautiful game, such a big game, the most popular in the world and, of course, Manchester United is the club with a rich history. I love it.”
The U19s training in Vilnius in November.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE YOUTH LEAGUE
As well delving into fan culture in the Baltic state, this latest episode of Lifeblood explores why the Youth League is such an important competition for the Academy, and what challenge it presents to the club’s staff, as well as players.
You might recognise some of the players involved. Many have been featured in senior matchday squads over the last few months, including Ethan Wheatley (graduate number 250), Jack Fletcher, Harry Amass, Jayce Fitzgerald and Godwill Kukonki.
As well as Higham, you’ll hear from Lawrence (lead coach), Colin Little (assistant) and the head coach of Zalgiris, a lifelong United fan.
“Only last season, Kobbie Mainoo was playing in this competition,” says Higham.
“He faced FC Copenhagen at the start of November for the U19s and Galatasaray for the first team at the end of the month. And within a few months, well, we know what happened there!”
Mainoo playing in the UEFA Youth League, just a fortnight before his first senior Premier League start.
HOW TO WATCH LIFEBLOOD: REDS IN EUROPE
Lifeblood: Reds in Europe will be premiere at 19:00 GMT on Monday and is available first for MUTV subscribers, including on ManUtd.com and the United App.
It will be available for registered users and on YouTube at a later date.
Catch up on the Lifeblood series:
Monday 09 December 2024 15:35
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