December 16 – The head of Manchester United’s academy has warned that Brexit will have an adverse effect of English clubs trying to sign young players from overseas.
From January 1, all players moving to England must be at least 18 years old and qualify for entry through a points-based system.
“We wish there was a level playing field but there won’t be,” United’s Nick Cox told the BBC.
The new rules bring to an end the current arrangement which has seen youngsters from the age of 16 being allowed to sign and become assimilated into the English game.
“It probably puts us at a disadvantage to other European clubs,” said Cox. “There will be movement of players between clubs in other European countries but they won’t be able to move to our club at the age of 16, as they currently can.”
Cox was speaking on behalf of United’s academy in recognition of its receipt of the Coaching Chain award from UK Coaching.
This year’s award went jointly to anyone who has been involved in the development of England striker Marcus Rashford who famously forced the UK government into a u-turn over free school meals.
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