Lille's English Gem Hints at a Possible Return to Manchester United
Angel Gomes, Lille's rising star, has made it clear that he's open to a potential return to Manchester United, the club where his career first began. At 24, the talented English midfielder has made a name for himself in Ligue 1, and with his contract set to expire in June, he's caught the attention of several Premier League teams, including his former club, the Red Devils. Gomes is shaping up to be one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming transfer window.
Despite rumors linking him with teams like Liverpool, Arsenal, and Newcastle, Manchester United seems the most determined to get ahead of the competition. Reports suggest that the Old Trafford club is preparing to make an offer in January to avoid a bidding war in the summer, banking on the sentimental connection Gomes still holds with the club where he developed. The player himself has admitted that, although he's found happiness abroad, Manchester United will always hold a special place in his heart.
In a recent interview with The Times, Angel Gomes shared his thoughts: “There will always be that sentimental corner, so, of course, it’d be hard to say no. As amazing as it’s been finding happiness abroad, I know playing in the Premier League isn’t the only way." These words show that, while he values his experience outside of England, he's not ruling out the chance of a return to Manchester if the opportunity arises.
Gomes’ growth at Lille has been impressive. Since joining the French side, he’s developed as a midfielder, adapting to different roles under manager Paulo Fonseca. His ability to control the game from deeper positions has caught the eye of several European clubs, alongside his recent call-up to the England national team. All of this has raised his profile and put him on the radar of some of football’s biggest clubs.
For Manchester United, who’ve had a bit of an up-and-down season under Erik ten Hag, adding a player like Gomes could be a huge boost. The midfield has been one of the team’s weaker areas, and bringing in someone like him—who understands the club's philosophy and still has room to grow—would be a valuable reinforcement. Plus, the fact that Gomes came through United's academy adds even more appeal for the club’s fans.
With his contract at Lille running out in June, the possibility of a return to Old Trafford seems more real than ever. As the rumors continue to swirl, Angel Gomes remains clear in his message: if Manchester United comes knocking, it would be hard to say no. Both emotionally and on a football level, a return to the club where it all started could be a story of redemption and success—a reunion between a homegrown talent and the club that’s always been in his heart.