Man Utd's Curse Revealed: Ex-Midfielder Exposes Why Players Thrive After Leaving Old Trafford
Angel Gomes has discussed the 'burden' that comes with wearing the Manchester United jersey when addressing why certain players have flourished after leaving Old Trafford in recent seasons.
Gomes, who received his first England call-ups under Lee Carsley's management last year, was merely 16 when he made his debut for the Red Devils in 2017—becoming the youngest player to represent the club since Duncan Edwards back in 1953.
He naturally generated significant excitement but only made five substitute appearances in the Premier League before moving to French side Lille in 2020. While in France, Gomes developed and evolved into a crucial midfielder despite having previously shined as a creative playmaker in United's youth setup. He featured in over 100 matches for Les Dogues and has now committed to joining Marseille on a free transfer this summer, despite reported interest from Premier League clubs.
Speaking to the BBC, Gomes reflected on finding success beyond Manchester United and addressed whether players struggle with the pressure and expectations associated with representing such a prestigious institution.
He acknowledged that "some" players find it difficult to handle the 'weight' of the Man Utd shirt but suggested that additional factors contribute to why former United players often thrive elsewhere.
"Players may have been intimidated or not really know about the weight, what it carries and what it takes," he said.
"But ultimately, sometimes, it's down to environment, timing and having the right things in place to help you.
"Some players who have left and gone on to do better than when they were at United, there might be things in place at that certain club, at that moment in time, that helped them succeed," the midfielder added.
Although Scott McTominay was a regular fixture at United for years after emerging from the academy, the Scottish international has reached impressive new heights at Napoli following his departure from Old Trafford last summer. Perfectly utilized by Antonio Conte, McTominay was given license to contribute significantly in attacking areas during his first Italian campaign and played an instrumental part in their Serie A championship.
Jadon Sancho, similarly, has shown brilliance at Borussia Dortmund both before and after his unsuccessful spell at Man Utd, while Antony flourished during his loan at Real Betis in the latter half of last season after previously looking completely out of his element on United's right wing.
"Sometimes it's not as black and white as they failed or they've not held their own there because of the weight of the shirt," Gomes concluded.