Angel Gomes left Manchester United on a free transfer in 2020 and the England international finds himself in the same situation but with much more experience under his belt after four years at Lille
Former Manchester United starlet Angel Gomes has announced that he'll leave French club Lille when his contract expires next month. Gomes, 24, has spent the last four seasons at Lille after leaving United in 2020.
The midfielder's progress in Ligue 1 earned him his first England call-up last September under interim manager Lee Carsley. Gomes was part of the talented Young Lions side that won the under-21 European Championship two years ago.
His eye-catching performances for club and country prompted Premier League sides to take notice, with Newcastle, Tottenham and West Ham among those to be linked. The 24-year-old has also gone on record to say that he'd never rule out a return to United in the future.
Now that could become a reality, as Gomes will field offers after confirming his departure from Lille on Monday. "After four unforgettable years at LOSC Lille, it's time for me to say goodbye," he posted on Instagram.
"This club has been more than just a team - it's been a family, a home, and a place that has shaped me both on and off the pitch. Like any journey, there were ups and downs, highs and lows, but I'm truly grateful to my team-mates and the fans for sticking with me throughout.
"I'm proud of what we achieved together and thankful for every moment. To the fans - thank you for your amazing support and for believing in me.
"I will forever be grateful. I always gave everything I had for the badge and for all of you. Lille will always have a special place in my heart."
The Red Devils had high hopes for Gomes, who captained England at under-18 level and is the godson of ex-United winger Nani. Jose Mourinho gave him his debut in 2017 before Ole Gunnar Solskjaer used him sparingly towards the end of his time at Old Trafford.
Following his release, Lille snapped him up. After spending one year on loan at Portuguese outfit Boavista, Gomes established himself at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
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Last season, playing as an attacking midfielder, Gomes scored two goals and registered 10 assists in 45 appearances, his best return to date. He only played 20 games this campaign, losing his starting place after suffering a calf injury in November.
He failed to appear in a single matchday squad in April and was named on the bench for Lille's last two games of the season. Back in September, Gomes was asked if he'd received offers to return to England.
"I have," he confirmed. "But I believe everything will happen naturally and at its own time and I am really chilled. So, if something was to come up that did make sense, you never know in football."