Man United Wonderkid Compared to Bukayo Saka Receives International Call-Up After Contract Agreement
In a season marked by inconsistency and change, Manchester United have been given a fresh reason to celebrate the future: one of their most exciting academy talents, Amir Ibragimov, has received his first international call-up shortly after agreeing to a new long-term contract with the club. The 16-year-old forward, hailed as the “next Bukayo Saka” by some within Carrington’s coaching staff, is fast emerging as one of the brightest prospects in the Red Devils’ youth ranks.
Ibragimov’s meteoric rise has been drawing attention across Europe, and his blend of technical brilliance, maturity beyond his years, and attacking versatility has led to comparisons with Arsenal star Saka—especially due to his intelligence on the ball and ability to thrive in multiple attacking roles. Now, with his international future beginning to take shape, the spotlight on Ibragimov has never been brighter.
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From Dagestan to Manchester: The Rise of Amir Ibragimov
Born in Dagestan, Russia, Ibragimov moved to England at a young age and joined Manchester United’s youth setup after impressing at local levels. His rapid development through the academy ranks has earned him comparisons not just to Saka, but also to United legends like Ryan Giggs and Cristiano Ronaldo—players who made their names as teenage prodigies on the wings.
A versatile attacker, Ibragimov is capable of playing on either flank or as a central attacking midfielder. He’s known for his close control, dribbling in tight spaces, and an eye for goal. In the 2023/24 U18 Premier League season, he tallied 13 goals and 9 assists, including standout performances against Manchester City and Chelsea.
More impressively, he captained United’s U16s at just 14 years old and was quickly promoted to the U18s, earning praise for his leadership and attitude both on and off the pitch.
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Comparison to Bukayo Saka: A New-Generation Star
The comparison to Bukayo Saka, one of England’s most important players, isn’t made lightly. Like Saka, Ibragimov demonstrates:
Positional flexibility: Both have excelled as wingers, wing-backs, and even in central roles.
Footballing IQ: Ibragimov, like Saka, reads the game like a seasoned professional despite his age.
Work ethic: Coaches describe Ibragimov as “obsessed with improvement,” frequently staying behind after training to hone his finishing and crossing.
While still a teenager, Ibragimov has already shown the temperament and ability to influence games at youth level in a way that’s reminiscent of Saka’s breakout performances at Arsenal.
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New Contract: Commitment to the Red Side of Manchester
Manchester United were keen to fend off interest from several top European clubs, including Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, who were closely monitoring Ibragimov’s situation. With his old youth terms approaching expiration, the club prioritized tying him down.
United announced this week that Ibragimov has signed a new long-term scholarship agreement, which will transition into a professional contract as soon as he turns 17 later this year. This is part of a renewed focus on safeguarding their academy gems under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS regime, especially after losing talents like Marc Jurado and Hannibal Mejbri in the recent past.
According to reports, the deal includes a clear pathway to first-team opportunities, something that was crucial in Ibragimov’s decision to stay. The new leadership structure has promised to create bridges between the academy and senior team, with Ibragimov earmarked for potential training sessions with the senior squad during pre-season.
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International Call-Up: England or Russia?
Ibragimov’s dual eligibility had sparked debate over his international allegiance. Eligible for both England and Russia, the player has now received a call-up to the England U17 squad, a move seen as a significant step in his development and commitment to the Three Lions.
Gareth Southgate and the FA have reportedly been keeping tabs on Ibragimov’s progress and see him as a future candidate for England’s senior setup. His inclusion at U17 level offers a vital opportunity to integrate him into England’s national team culture and fend off any late interest from Russia’s federation.
England’s youth coaches are excited about Ibragimov’s vision, flair, and “fearless” attacking play. “He brings something different to the squad—a spark,” said one England youth coach. “He’s got the swagger of a street footballer but the discipline of a future professional.”
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Next Steps: Fast Track to the First Team?
Manchester United are expected to include Ibragimov in their pre-season tour squad this summer, potentially giving him his first minutes in a senior matchday environment. This comes amid a wider shift toward youth integration under Amorim and INEOS, who have already introduced Kobbie Mainoo and Willy Kambwala to first-team action.
With players like Jadon Sancho, Antony, and even Marcus Rashford under scrutiny for inconsistent performances, the pathway for someone like Ibragimov is clearer than it’s been in years. Amorim is reportedly intrigued by the idea of developing Ibragimov in a hybrid inside-forward role, where his creativity can be maximized behind a central striker.
Insiders at Carrington believe Ibragimov could make his senior debut as early as the EFL Cup fixtures in the autumn, particularly if he continues his impressive trajectory during the pre-season schedule.
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Fans React: A Beacon of Hope in Uncertain Times
United fans have been quick to celebrate the news of Ibragimov’s contract renewal and international recognition. On social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, supporters are calling him “the most exciting youth player since Greenwood” and urging the club to nurture him carefully.
Given the club’s recent struggles on the pitch, academy stars like Ibragimov and Mainoo offer hope of a brighter, more homegrown future—echoing the “Class of ’92” tradition that remains central to the club’s identity.
With many fans disillusioned by expensive flops and underperforming veterans, there’s renewed appreciation for youth development and trust in Carrington’s talent pipeline.
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Conclusion: A Star on the Rise
The story of Amir Ibragimov is only just beginning, but already the signs are promising. With a new contract secured, an international call-up in hand, and first-team prospects on the horizon, the wonderkid compared to Bukayo Saka is poised to take his next big steps in football.
Manchester United, long known for producing world-class talent from within, appear to have unearthed their next gem. If handled with care, patience, and the right mentorship, Ibragimov could become a household name not just at Old Trafford—but on the global stage.
In an era where identity and direction have often felt lost at Manchester United, Amir Ibragimov may just be the player to bring back some of the club’s most cherished values.
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