Ethan Wheatley was expected to do great things at Manchester United. He became the 250th academy player to play for the first team when he debuted in a 4-2 win over Sheffield United in April 2024.

Wheatley was noticed in the academy and joined first-team training in October 2024 as Erik ten Hag prepared for a Europa League game against Fenerbahce.

The young forward, 18 at the time, made an impression. In a training drill, Wheatley got a pass with Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee near him, then cleverly nutmegged Rashford with a neat flick.

Rashford was clearly surprised by the nutmeg and stepped away from the drill. The moment showed the friendship within the team as Rashford soon rejoined his teammates to laugh about it.

Wheatley has been loaned out three times in two seasons after failing to secure a regular spot in United's first team. He first went to League Two team Walsall in January 2025 but only played four times without scoring.

Last August, Wheatley joined League One team Northampton Town on loan, becoming a regular player and scoring three goals in 25 games. However, United called him back in January and loaned him to Bradford City.

After being recalled, Northampton manager Kevin Nolan said Wheatley had improved a lot and was sad to see him go. Nolan said, 'We're disappointed Ethan was recalled, but we're proud of our work with him, and he leaves a better player than when he arrived.'

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Northampton was already planning for a period without Wheatley due to an injury. They thanked Manchester United for loaning him and wished him well.

Nolan said, 'I know Ethan enjoyed his time here, and his family appreciated how we took care of him. Manchester United was pleased with the loan.' However, Wheatley's time with Bradford City has not been productive, with no goals in 11 league games.

The 20-year-old is currently on loan at Bradford City.

Bradford City's Antoni Sarcevic said about Wheatley's difficulty scoring, 'Ethan is a young player finding his way in the EFL.'

Sarcevic said, 'Ethan is doing great for us. He'll focus on goals, but what he gives us is good. The goals will come if he keeps going.' Rashford is also on loan, now with fewer than three months left at Barcelona.

Rashford has found his best form with Barcelona, scoring 10 goals and 13 assists in 39 games, helping them defend their La Liga title.

Ethan Wheatley made four senior appearances for Manchester United.

Rashford has regained his confidence and is set to play in his third World Cup this summer.

Rashford will return to Manchester at the end of the season unless Barcelona buys him for £26 million, which he has expressed a desire for.

England and Nike have launched new kits for the FIFA World Cup, offering free delivery with the code ENGFREEDEL.