Ex-Manchester United wonderkid breaks silence on 'amazing' Old Trafford return

Shola Shoretire has expressed his pride in holding the record as Manchester United's youngest player to feature in a European match, but he is now focused on challenging his former club as he returns to Old Trafford with PAOK.

The forward, who emerged from United's academy, made history in February 2021 when he played in the Europa League against Real Sociedad at just 17 years and 23 days old, surpassing Norman Whiteside's record. Now 20, Shoretire is back where it all began, this time representing PAOK, having signed a four-year contract with them after his deal with the Premier League giants expired.

"It’s an achievement I’m very thankful for," Shoretire reflected on his historic moment. "I put in a lot of hard work and I was very thankful to be blessed with that opportunity.

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"It’s an amazing feeling to be back. When we found out we were playing against them, it was a big surprise, but very nice to be back."

Discussing his departure from United, he added: "Of course it was difficult to leave, but I felt it was the right moment for my career. PAOK seemed like a very good club to go to, and I’m very happy with how it’s gone so far.

"We’re here to win tomorrow. That’s why we’re here, and we believe we can do this."

Shoretire, who made a name for himself at United after joining the club at just nine years old and being named the 2020-21 Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year, has expressed his enduring respect for the Reds. Despite now playing for PAOK, the 20-year-old insists he won't celebrate if he scores against his former club in Thursday's Europa League clash.

"I’ve been asked this question by my friends and some of the team-mates, but my answer is no because I still respect United for everything they’ve done for me," Shoretire stated. "I wouldn’t be in this position without them."

He also dismissed the idea that PAOK's coaching staff have sought insider knowledge from him ahead of the match with United, who are under new management following the sacking of Erik ten Hag and the impending arrival of Ruben Amorim as head coach on Monday. "I think every club goes through situations like this, obviously, with a changing management," he said.

"It can be difficult for the players, but I’m sure they will come tomorrow aggressive, ready to win. They need the points and so do we."

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