Manchester United recall three youth academy players from loan moves
Manchester United have recalled three academy graduates from their respective loan spells.
With the January transfer window now officially open and Man United facing a mini injury crisis, it’s possible that at least one of them could remain with the squad.
Based on the positions that the first team is currently suffering from absentees, it’s possible that a pair could be restored to the wider squad.
First and foremost of those is Toby Collyer, who made his debut last year and has already made a baker’s dozen appearances for the Red Devils.
As you can see, Championship outfit West Bromwich Albion confirmed that Collyer would be returning to his parent club on New Year’s Day 2026.
The 21-year-old Worthing-born and 251st United academy graduate could be a useful rotation option for Ruben Amorim for the rest of the season.
With creative cogs Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo currently out injured, not to mention Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte, fellow youngster Jack Fletcher, and even once again fit defender Lisandro Martinez sharing roles in the middle of the park, the midfielder could come in handy.
Fletcher’s twin brother, Tyler (both sons of former player Darren Fletcher), could also be set to play his first game for his boyhood club very soon.
As for the other two youth players having their loans cut short, BBC Sport has reported that defender Sonny Aljofree and goalkeeper Elyh Harrison are being recalled to the Carrington Training Complex.
United have officially recalled Toby Collyer from his loan spell at West Brom. Will be a few similar moves this month with Elyh Harrison and Sonny Aljofree also coming back to the club. United exploring various loan exits in January #mufc
— Rich Fay (@RichFay) January 1, 2026
In addition to Collyer having his progress hampered by injury problems, Aljofree and Harrison simply haven’t enjoyed enough regular playing time.
Despite making promising starts, both Aljofree and Harrison haven’t been part of the starting XI for Notts County and Shrewsbury Town, respectively, since September.
Who do you think could stay for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign and who do you think is likely to leave before the end of the month.
Beyond that, do you think Man United should bring anyone else in this winter?
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Featured Images — Timmy Nguyen (via Wikimedia Commons)/Manchester United