English-Nigerian teen David Eze signs for Man Utd Academy, exits Man City

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of 16-year-old English-Nigerian midfielder David Eze, who leaves Manchester City after eight years at the club. Eze, who has represented England at U15 and U16 levels, will be eligible to sign his first professional contract from March 2027 when he turns 17. In a related move, German-Nigerian forward Noah Ajayi, 17, has pledged a long-term professional contract with United after featuring in the UEFA Youth League and helping the side reach last season's FA Youth Cup final.

For Nigerian fans, the arrivals highlight the growing pipeline of dual-heritage talent flowing into England's top academies. Eze's progression offers a concrete example of how youth players with Nigerian roots can break into Premier League setups, potentially strengthening future Super Eagles squads. Ajayi's commitment further shows that Nigerian-linked prospects are earning trust at elite clubs early in their careers.

What should you know? Eze's scholarship deal means he cannot turn pro until March 2027, but he will train with United's academy setup immediately. Ajayi's contract is already active, giving him a pathway to the first team. Follow their development through United's youth matches and consider how local academies in Nigeria might emulate such structured youth-to-pro pipelines.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/26/transfer-eze-completes-manchester-united-switch/