In his first squad as interim England manager, Lee Carsley included a few surprises, none more so than 23-year-old Angel Gomes. The former Manchester United Academy graduate has limited Premier League experience, with only 46 minutes under his belt, yet he has carved out a successful career in Ligue 1 with Lille, helping the French side qualify for the Champions League this season.
Gomes has represented England at every youth level, from under-16s to under-21s, and now has a chance to make his senior debut in the upcoming Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
BBC Sport takes a closer look at Gomes’ unconventional journey, which includes tough lessons under Jose Mourinho, a painful exit from United, and a revival in France.
Early Days at Manchester United
Angel Gomes was born in Edmonton, north London, but grew up in Salford, where he started training with Manchester United at just six years old. Football ran in his blood—his father, Gil Gomes, represented Portugal at under-21 level and helped them win the 1991 FIFA Youth World Championship.
Under the management of Kieran McKenna, now the boss at Ipswich Town, Gomes became a key player for United’s under-18 side. He made his senior debut for United at the end of the 2016-17 season, coming on as a late substitute for Wayne Rooney in a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace. This made Gomes the first player born in the 2000s to play in the Premier League and the youngest to represent United since Duncan Edwards in 1953.
Struggles Under Mourinho
Despite his early promise, Gomes’ Premier League opportunities were limited under then-manager Jose Mourinho. In the 2017-18 season, he was only given two minutes of first-team action. Mourinho’s harsh treatment of the young player, including a public dressing-down in front of the squad, left Gomes disheartened. Reflecting on the experience in a 2022 interview, Gomes admitted he was on the verge of tears after being humiliated by Mourinho.
Revival in France
Mourinho’s departure in December 2018 initially gave Gomes a boost, with more appearances under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. However, by the end of the 2019-20 season, he had only made 10 senior appearances for United. With first-team opportunities still scarce, Gomes rejected a new contract and moved to Lille on a free transfer.
A loan spell at Boavista in Portugal proved to be a turning point. There, Gomes found the regular first-team football he needed, scoring six goals and providing three assists in 30 appearances. His performances earned him a regular spot at Lille, where he has been used more centrally and defensively, showcasing his versatility across the midfield. Over the past two seasons, Gomes has been one of Lille’s standout performers, leading Ligue 1 in assists during the 2023-24 season.
England Recognition
Despite his limited exposure to Premier League fans, Gomes has been a fixture in England’s youth teams, helping them win the Under-17 World Cup in 2017 and the European Under-21 Championship in 2023. His technical ability and control in midfield have made him a favorite of Lee Carsley, who was quick to praise Gomes’ unique qualities when announcing his first England squad.
“Angel is a different type of midfielder,” Carsley said. “He’s more technical, controlling the game with his skill rather than physicality. He fully deserves this opportunity, and I’m excited to see what he can do at the senior level.”
It has been an unconventional path for Gomes, but now he has the chance to show the world what he is capable of on the biggest stage.
