“I want to play…”: United midfielder prepared to seal Old Trafford exit to achieve his “main aim”

Manchester United talent Jacob Devaney has made his transfer intentions clear after lining up for the club in the pre-season friendly against Wrexham. Carrick boost United are bracing for a busy season in which they will not only be looking to battle for the Premier League title, but also play in the Champions League and other domestic competitions. The hierarchy, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe are working hard to bolster the squad for Michael Carrick. Already, United have announced the signings of Andrey Santos, Karl Darlow and Youri Tielemans. More signings are expected but another way for United to beef up the ranks is by promoting youngsters. During his time in the Old Trafford dugout, Carrick has shown that he will not hesitate to play youngsters he feels are ready to make the step up. According to the Manchester Evening News, Carrick spent the week before first-team training resumed at Carrington keeping tabs on United’s best starlets as he pondered handing them first-team opportunities in pre-season. It’s understood that the club legend spent most days with the academy staff watching sessions. Devaney spoke to the newspaper and reiterated the boost that it gives him and his teammates. Devaney also outlined his desire for first-team minutes, whether at United or on another loan after spending the second half of last season at St Mirren. Devaney’s stance He said, “(It’s) really important, we speak about it as a group. t’s great to have Michael there at the games, and even like we were in training a week before the first team, and I think he was out at every session with the staff.” “It’s nice that he takes knowledge of what you’re doing and he’s obviously not afraid to throw the youth in. He’s shown that last year. It’s positive to have someone like him in the building.” Devaney continued, “I want to play first-team football, whether that be at Man United for the next year or not. The main aim and goal for me is to play for Man United week in, week out. So whether I have to go on loan again and gain more valuable experience like what I have done at St. Mirren, that’s what I’ll do, or whether that be in the building, learning from the best, which is here at Man United, so we’ll see what happens.” The 19-year-old explained his best position. A versatile player, he has been used both in midfield and central defence. “I see myself as a midfielder, but I’m playing for Man United at the end of the day, so wherever the staff want me to play, I’ll play, and I’ll try my best. But yeah, ideally, I’m a midfielder by trade.” “Wherever I’m put on the pitch, I played multiple positions in the last year, two years. And no matter who I’m up against, whether it’s the lads in training or lads like Kieffer Moore, I’ll apply myself, and I’ll give 100%, and I’ll always back myself to come out on top as well.” “I thought me and Dan [Armer] dealt with him [Moore] well. It goes without saying he’s a big physical threat. He’s had a good career. But I thought we dealt with him well as a pair, and it’s nice to test yourself against someone like him in games like this.” United are next in action on Friday, when they face Rosenborg Featured image Lewis Storey 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!