French side LOSC Lille have confirmed the signing of ex-Manchester United youngster Angel Gomes on a deal that runs until 2025. The English attacking midfielder will spend the next season on loan at Boavista in the Portuguese Primeira Liga.
Opportunities were limited at Manchester United, and he chose not to renew his contract when it expired on July 1. The 19-year-old started his senior career at United aged 16, but only made ten appearances for the club since his debut. While Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wanted him to stay, and a contract offer was on the table, he leaves in search of more game time to further his development.
Will Angel Gomes Fulfill His Potential at Losc Lille?
Youth Career
Angel Gomes was born in England and joined Manchester United’s youth system at the age of five. It was apparent early on that his talent exceeded the norm for players his age. As he progressed through the academy, he represented the under-17 side aged thirteen, and made his U-18 debut at fourteen.
Gomes had his first-team debut in 2017, replacing Wayne Rooney, one of his idols. That day, he became the youngest player to represent United since 1953. In December of the same year, he signed his first professional contract. Nevertheless, he only appeared four more times competitively for the senior squad. Opportunities in the Red Devil’s midfield are limited, and proving himself has become a difficult challenge.
At international level, Gomes has captained England at the under-16, 17 and 18 levels. He also captained the squad that won England’s first under-17 World Cup. Gomes has yet to represent England at senior level, and could also ply his trade for Angola and Portugal.
What Awaits Him at Boavista
This season, Gomes appeared five times for Manchester United’s under-23 team in the Premier League 2. He impressively contributed four goals and two assists in his 429 minutes on the pitch. The attaching midfielder also made 8 appearances for United’s first team in 2019/20.
After signing with Lille, Gomes was immediately loaned to Primeira Liga side Boavista, based in Porto. The club finished in 12th place, just 6 points over the relegation zone. The side could use some attacking talent, with a goal difference of – 11. With his creativity, Gomes could help solve that problem.
Most recently, the Portuguese team lined-up in a 4-4-2, a formation without Gomes’ favored attacking midfield position. The 5’3” midfielder could be used on the left, or upfront as a false 9, where his creativity and skill could be exploited. On the contrary, he could be deployed in the midfield pair, with the capability to roam forward and dictate play.
Angel Gomes’ Chance to Prove Himself
A full season of senior football is just what the English midfielder needs to prove himself. He should be able to shine in an environment with less pressure than in Manchester. It is obvious that Gomes has the talent, but he needs to develop experience and consistency.
Upon his return to Lille, he will join a young and exciting squad in Ligue 1. He will hopefully create a partnership with players like Jonathan Ikoné, Jonathan Bamba, and new signing Jonathan David. On paper, this team looks strong offensively, and could have a very strong season in France. The future looks bright for Angel Gomes.
Main Photo
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