Nigerian midfielder David Eze has announced his departure from Premier League champions Manchester City after spending eight years with the club’s youth academy.
The 2010-born youngster is now set to begin a new chapter in his football career after reaching an agreement to join Manchester City’s Premier League rivals, Manchester United.
Eze, who has attracted attention from several other Category One academies, reportedly chose Manchester United as his preferred destination as he looks to continue his development at one of England’s biggest football clubs.
The highly rated midfielder is expected to join United under a scholarship arrangement and feature for the club’s U18 side during the upcoming campaign.
Despite his expected involvement with the U18 team, Eze will remain eligible to play for Manchester United’s U21 squad and could potentially progress through the club’s development structure as he continues to mature.
Born in March 2010, Eze has spent the majority of his footballing development at Manchester City, where he joined the academy at a young age.
His decision to leave the club brings an end to an eight-year association that saw him develop through various age-group levels while working with different coaches and academy staff.
Under Premier League regulations, players in their Under-17 year are required to begin the season on a scholarship agreement before becoming eligible to sign their first professional contract from their 17th birthday.
Eze’s move to Manchester United is therefore expected to be an important step in his progression as he prepares for the next phase of his youth football career.
Reflecting on his time at Manchester City, the young midfielder expressed gratitude to the coaches, staff and other individuals who contributed to his development during his eight years at the club.
In a message shared on Instagram, Eze announced his decision to move on, describing his time at City as an unforgettable period of his young career.
He wrote:
“After 8 unforgettable years, I have decided to leave Manchester City and begin a new chapter.
“I am immensely thankful for the opportunities, challenges, and memories that have influenced both my career and my personal growth.
“I extend my gratitude to the coaches and staff with whom I have had the honour of working and for all the support provided throughout the years.”
The move represents another significant step in Eze’s budding football career, with Manchester United now providing the platform for the young Nigerian to further develop his abilities.
At United, the midfielder will have the opportunity to work within another renowned academy system and compete against some of the country’s most promising young players.
Eze will now be hoping to settle quickly into life at Old Trafford’s youth setup and make a strong impression as he continues his journey towards professional football.
