Manchester United have announced their retained list for 2026, and after its release, the futures of some young players remain uncertain.
Manchester United have announced their retained list for 2026, and after its release, the futures of some young players remain uncertain.
Not only Casemiro, Sancho, and Malacia are not on Manchester United's 2026 retained list, but some academy players' contracts have also expired.
Sonny Aljofree has left Manchester United, having announced it on social media last month, and Malachi Sharp has also confirmed his departure independently.
James Lyon-Bailey's contract was not renewed; the 18-year-old spent most of 2026 on loan at Stockport County. Dermot Benjamin-Mee has received a new contract offer to be the fourth-choice goalkeeper, and two other Manchester United academy players are also expected to get contract extensions.
Albert-Mills and Dante-Plunkett set to renew contracts with Manchester United
For Albert Mills and Dante Plunkett, it could have been a departure, but Manchester United decided to keep them.
Steven Railston, a reporter for the Manchester Evening News, revealed that although the two are not on the retained list, they will not leave.
After returning for pre-season training, both Mills and Plunkett will sign their first professional contracts with Manchester United in July.
For Mills, last season was outstanding—he was an absolute key player under Fletcher and was also called up to the England U18 national team alongside Shea Lacey.
Meanwhile, Plunkett also had a solid season, earning a call-up to the senior Jamaica national team.
Manchester United made the right decision by offering professional contracts to these two young players.
Godswill Kukonki still hasn't renewed his contract with Manchester United
While Mills and Plunkett are set to sign, Godswill Kukonki's situation remains concerning, as he has not yet signed a professional contract at Old Trafford.
Eighteen months ago, Kukonki was highly anticipated to break records, but he has yet to make a first-team appearance.
Manchester United offered him a new contract in March 2025, but his name was not mentioned in this retained list, meaning he might leave this summer.
Daily Mail reporter Nathan Salt stated that the lack of progress in this matter inevitably leads to speculation.
Considering Kukonki's talent, coupled with rumors of Ajax's interest, losing him would be a significant blow to Manchester United.