Michael – 13 Years Old – Winger | Scouted by Wolverhampton Wanderers, Mansfield Town & Sheffield United

At just 13 years old, Michael is already showing the qualities of a player who understands both the demands and the mindset required to progress in football. A left-winger with confidence, creativity, and a growing sense of leadership, Michael has earned opportunities with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Mansfield Town, and Sheffield United after impressing at UK Football Trials.

Michael’s football journey began early.

“I started playing football when I was four,” he explained. His early years were spent attending football camps, where he developed a love for the game and began building his technical foundation. By the age of 10, he had transitioned into club football, and from that point on, his approach changed.

“That’s when I started taking football seriously,” he said.

That decision to commit fully has clearly paid off. When Michael was told that he had been scouted, the moment felt fully earned.

“I was very happy because I believed that I worked very hard for this and I truly deserved it,” he said. The recognition was not just a confidence boost, but confirmation that his dedication and effort were being noticed by the right people.

Following the UK Football Trials event, Michael was invited into a trial environment — and he made an immediate impact.

“I am doing very well at my trial right now,” he explained. “In my first week of trialling, we did a match and I scored a hat trick, and they were very impressed.”

That performance set the tone early, and he is currently continuing his trial period with Sheffield United, determined to keep pushing and improving every session.

Reflecting on what he has taken from the UK Football Trials experience, Michael highlighted the lessons that go beyond just technical ability.

“I learned leadership and quick decision making,” he said. “I also learned that you should always trust your teammates.”

These are qualities that coaches value highly, particularly in wide players who are often expected to make fast decisions under pressure and contribute both individually and as part of a team.

One moment from the trials stands out clearly in Michael’s mind.

“When I was playing at my best in the 7-a-side game and when I was showing off my skills to the scouts,” he said. That ability to perform freely and confidently in front of scouts is a key reason why he attracted interest from multiple clubs.

Michael was clear about why he chose to attend UK Football Trials in the first place.

“I thought this was an opportunity to show my ability and my skills to the right people,” he explained. That opportunity has now opened doors that may not have been accessible otherwise.

Asked whether he would recommend UK Football Trials to other players, his answer was emphatic.

“Yes, because it opens up other opportunities for you to show what you’ve got and what you’re capable of to the right people,” he said. “It gives you a better chance at becoming a professional and making it as a professional.”

Since joining his current trial environment, Michael has also felt supported by the club.

“They gave me a very warm congratulations for being on trial with them,” he shared — a small but meaningful moment that reinforced his belief that he belongs at this level.

Michael’s story is a strong example of what can happen when hard work meets opportunity. With a standout start to his trial, strong performances, and a mature attitude towards learning and teamwork, he is giving himself the best possible chance to continue progressing. For now, his focus remains simple: keep working, keep learning, and keep performing every time he steps onto the pitch.