From Asia to Old Trafford: Man Utd host young talents with ‘United We Play’

An article from April 2024 points out that since its inception in 1992, 123 nationalities have been represented in the Premier League. This includes a player from Guatemala which spans an area of 6.7 km2. One of the countries that’s drawn a blank in this regard happens to be the most populous country in the world. We are yet to see an Indian play in the top tier of English football.

Among other factors, one of the fundamental reasons why we haven’t seen an Indian make it to the highest level of world football is the country’s disjointed grassroots infrastructure and scouting programmes. ‘United We Play’ (UWP) – a grassroots initiative by Apollo and Manchester United – is a step in the right direction that provides Asian prospects access to one of football’s most storied academies. 

Asia has provided less than 1% of Premier League players since the league’s inception. (Source: The Premier League)

In its fourth and latest edition, six standout talents from India, Nepal, Thailand and UAE were picked from a pool of over 15,000 to pay a visit to the Premier League’s most successful club. These young footballers were invited to Manchester to train with Man United Soccer School coaches, interact with former players like John O’Shea and Michael Chopra, and experience a matchday at Old Trafford. All while being mentored by former India international, Robin Singh. 

One of the six winners, Bhakta Bahadur Pariyar from Nepal, had to face an extra set of hurdles with a delayed arrival at Manchester. But once he made it, he soaked it all in.

“I am lucky enough to have visited to watch a Manchester United home match,” Pariyar said. “For someone from Nepal that I think is a rare achievement.” 

“After this platform, I’m more motivated and encouraged toward my football career. Every young player dreams of being a good football player, and this platform, United We Play, will help them fulfil this.”

While UWP has certainly had a positive impact on the footballing ecosystem in this part of the world, how far can this programme take Asia on the global stage? What are the tangible benefits a player can see while training under the floodlights of Manchester United? And after completing its biggest season, how can UWP take it a notch further? 

We caught up with Man United’s academy director, Nick Cox at Carrington as well as club legend, John O’Shea in the pouring Manchester rain and UWP mentor, Robin Singh at Old Trafford to get some answers in the video below.