Manchester United defender James Nolan bids heartfelt goodbye after confirmation of his exit

Manchester United defender James Nolan has expressed his gratitude to the club and supporters after confirmation that he will be released.

United published their retained list on Monday and Nolan was confirmed as one of three academy starlets who will leave the club upon the expiry of their deals at the end of June.

Nolan spent last season on loan with Inverness Caledonian Thistle in Scottish League One.

He made 33 appearances for the side and scored his first professional goal. He primarily played at full-back for Caledonian Thistle.

The 19-year-old was a regular at Under-21s level in 2023/24, amassing 21 appearances for Travis Binnion’s team.

He will now be on the hunt for a new club as he continues his professional career.

Nolan took to Instagram and published a series of pictures from when he joined the club, to lining up for the youth teams alongside players like Kobbie Mainoo and Anthony Elanga.

He accompanied these nostalgic photos with an emotional farewell message.

The Chorley-born footballer wrote, “My time at Manchester United has now come to an end.”

“From joining at the age of seven to now leaving at 19 it has been my second home.”

“I just want to say a massive thank you to the coaches, players and everyone at the club for making my time unforgettable.”

“I’ve made memories to last a lifetime. Once a Red always a Red.”

Several United youngsters including Jaydan Kamason, Reece Munro, James Overy, Shea Lacey and Tyler Fredricson all commented on the post to say farewell to their former teammate.

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Derick Kinoti

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won't hear otherwise!