Man United withdraw from EFL Trophy – here’s why

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleMan United have pulled out of the EFL Trophy after Michael Carrick guided the senior side back into the Champions League (PA)Manchester United have decided to withdraw their academy teams from both the EFL Trophy and the National League Cup starting from the 2026-27 season. This decision is primarily driven by the club's return to the Uefa Youth League, an under-19s competition, following the senior team's qualification for the Champions League. The club plans to operate with a smaller professional development phase group of players next season, aiming for an increased focus on individual player development for those transitioning between under-18s and under-21s. While the withdrawn competitions accounted for 10 matches last season, the Uefa Youth League will guarantee Manchester United at least eight fixtures, impacting their youth fixture schedule. Manchester United will continue their participation in the Premier League International Cup and are set to review their decision regarding the EFL Trophy and National League Cup ahead of subsequent seasons. In fullMan United pull youth team out of two competitions ahead of return to Europe next seasonThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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