Man Utd on brink of losing unique record lasting 88 years and 4,321 games

According to The Athletic, United have named a player who has come through their academy in every first-team squad since October 1937. That's a run of 4,321 games, 44 major trophies, 18 league titles, and three European Cups. 

However, that run is now looking 'unusually vulnerable' ahead of the 2025/26 season if the likes of Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo are sold. The former is eyeing a move to Chelsea but the latter could stay put. However, if the 20-year-old picks up an injury or a suspension, that remarkable Red Devils academy run could finally come to an end.

Figures show that last season at United, the average number of youth players in each first-team squad was 4.51 - a drop of 6.65 from the previous year. For the upcoming campaign, it could be the lowest number for three decades.

United will hope they can retain some of their best academy products, and perhaps some new names will rise up the youth ranks and extend this impressive club run. Ultimately, though, Ruben Amorim's team will focus on results rather than these types of records.