Angel Gomes: From Man Utd Exit to England Dreams at Marseille

Angel Gomes on Life Abroad, England Ambitions and the ‘Weight’ of the Man Utd Shirt

Angel Gomes’ football journey is one of quiet reinvention. Once heralded as Manchester United’s next big star, the England midfielder has forged a successful career path away from Old Trafford, with his latest move to Champions League-bound Marseille marking the next chapter.

In an exclusive interview with BBC Sport, the 23-year-old reflects on United, his career abroad, and his goal of representing England at the 2026 World Cup.

United’s Pressure and the ‘Weight of the Shirt’

Gomes made his Manchester United debut, replacing Wayne Rooney, at 16 years and 263 days old in 2017

Gomes joined United at age six and rose quickly through the youth ranks, debuting for the first team at just 16 years and 263 days, becoming the club’s youngest player since Duncan Edwards.

But despite the early promise, Gomes made only five Premier League appearances before leaving for Lille in 2020.

“From the moment you step into the place, the coaches are telling you about the history of the club,” Gomes said, noting the intense pressure to live up to legends like George Best and Bobby Charlton.

He doesn’t believe the “weight of the shirt” alone explains why players often excel after leaving United.

“Some players may have been intimidated, but a lot of it is about timing, environment, and having the right things in place to succeed.”

Why He Left Manchester United

Gomes spent five years in northern France with Lille and will now move south to Marseille

Gomes admits leaving United wasn’t easy but says the move to France helped him grow as a player and person.

“There were a lot of things pulling me toward staying, but I had to think about what was right for my career.”

His gamble paid off. After over 100 appearances for Lille, he now joins Marseille, continuing his rise on the European stage.

Tactical Intelligence Over Size

Gomes has four caps for England, all under Lee Carsley while he was in interim charge

At 5ft 6in, Gomes has often faced questions about his physical presence as a midfielder, but he sees his versatility and technical quality as key strengths.

“I’m a midfielder. I can play as a six, eight, or 10. I like to dictate the game, receive the ball anywhere – players like Thiago, Deco, or Scholes are who I want to emulate.”

England Recognition and Nepotism Criticism

Gomes made his England debut in 2023, impressing with his touches, passing accuracy, and tactical control in games against Ireland and Finland.

However, he’s had to dismiss suggestions that his call-ups were due to favoritism from interim coach Lee Carsley, with whom he worked at under-21 level.

“It was difficult to hear people say it was a favour… I knew the work I put in, and Gareth Southgate had already mentioned me.”

Aiming for the 2026 World Cup

While Thomas Tuchel has yet to call up Gomes since taking over England, the midfielder says communication has been positive.

“We’ve had video calls and messages. He’s watching, and I know what I need to do to get into the squad.”

As he embarks on a new challenge with Marseille, Gomes remains focused on breaking into England’s World Cup squad.

“The World Cup is the aim. The pinnacle. That’s what I’m working toward.”