Manchester City Academy captain reveals Manchester United snub after experiencing ‘not really proper training’ | OneFootball

The captain of Manchester City’s under-18s squad has revealed he snubbed Manchester United having experienced ‘not really proper training’ with the Old Trafford club.

Manchester City’s under-18 squad face their biggest game at their respective age group this week, as they take on Leeds United in the FA Youth Cup final, staged at the Etihad Stadium with a crowed expected to close in on the 20,000 mark.

One name who is expected to play a crucial role in any success for Ben Wilkinson’s side is the commanding figure in defence, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey – who has progressed through every Manchester City age-group since joining the club aged eight.

Having progressed into the club’s U18’s for the 2022/23 season, after signing his scholarship in July 2022, Simpson-Pusey went on to make 18 appearances as well as featuring for the club’s EDS on two occasions, before completing the transition into that level this season.

Speaking in the lead up to Manchester City’s FA Youth Cup final against Leeds United this week, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey revealed he rejected interest from Manchester United after experiencing ‘not really proper training’.

“I was in between teams: Everton, (Manchester) City, Manchester United,” Simpson-Pusey said, as relayed by MailSport’s Jack Gaughan. “I didn’t like it at City at the start and I went to United. I liked it at United – all they did was play mini games and it wasn’t really proper training.

“My mum ended up getting advice off those who have been in football and asked what would benefit me more. They said go to City because they did proper training sessions to help the player technically and individually.”

The 18-year-old has been asked to train up with Pep Guardiola’s first team on various occasions this season, and MailSport’s report also points out how he has started attempting the ‘John Stones role’ in recent games, as well as a single defensive midfielder.

“It’s becoming second nature,” the teenager admitted. “Growing up I used to watch Sergio Ramos because I like his aggression. I have been watching Ruben Dias, he is such a good leader and is aggressive on and off the ball and Stones because of the way he plays.

“With the FA Youth Cup final, you are remembered in a way because it is such a big tournament in England, it’s inspiring to see all the previous City players playing first team football.”

Manchester City’s rising stars made it through to the showpiece FA Youth Cup final courtesy of a 1-0 victory over Bristol City at the Joie Stadium, while Leeds United confirmed their place after a 4-3 win over Millwall at Elland Road.

En route to the final, City also defeated Watford away 2-0 in the third round, West Ham away 2-0 in the fourth round, Reading 2-1 at home in the fifth round, and Tottenham 2-1 at home in the quarter-finals, prior to the aforementioned win over Bristol City.