Suspicion of Age Fraud in Manchester Academies

English football is at the center of controversy following an investigation involving Manchester United and Manchester City in a possible age fraud scandal within their youth academies. 

The British newspaper claims to have photographic evidence proving that these footballers played in higher age categories in their home countries before arriving in England. Additionally, three of them reportedly represented England in youth national teams, raising concerns about the effectiveness of age verification processes in English football.

Parents Report Irregularities

The allegations surfaced after several parents of other academy players at Manchester United and Manchester City voiced their concerns to the federation and the clubs. So far, neither the clubs involved, the Premier League, nor the Home Office have issued statements on the matter.

There is no evidence that either club knowingly allowed the fraud, but the investigation questions whether enough measures have been taken to ensure transparency in the recruitment and registration of players.

This scandal not only raises doubts about player eligibility but also suggests the possibility of child trafficking. FIFA regulations prohibit the signing of minors who move to another country unless their relocation is for non-football-related reasons. Falsifying ages could be a tactic to bypass these restrictions.

Under the UK’s Nationality and Borders Act of 2022, scientific tests can be conducted to determine a player's real age when their identity is in doubt. However, none of the six players involved have undergone these tests.

Meanwhile, Manchester United has released a statement asserting that it complies with all regulations regarding its academy and player protection. Manchester City, on the other hand, has reaffirmed its commitment to current regulations and stated that its recruitment process is transparent.

The scandal is still unfolding, and both the Premier League and British authorities are under pressure to take action to prevent similar cases from happening in youth football.