‘One of the most promising prospects born in Europe’. That is how the former Manchester United youngster was announced at his new club, signing a long-term deal while confirming his departure from Old Trafford on Tuesday tea-time.
The excitement surrounding his arrival simply drips off every word of the official statement posted on the Serie A club’s official website.
Omari Forson, only a few months after being handed his Premier League debut by Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag, is now a Monza player.
Much to the disappointment, if should be said, of the Red Devils.
It is no secret that Man United wanted to tie Forson down to a new contract at Old Trafford. Per BBC Sport, the London-born forward – who started against Fulham during the absence of Rasmus Hojlund in February and also helped assist Kobbie Mainoo‘s stunning winner at Wolves – turned down offers to extend his stay.
Whether Man United’s loss proves to be Monza’s gain, meanwhile, depends on whether the ambitious Italians can coax the potential out of a player who certainly had his admirers at Carrington.
Omari Forson leaves Manchester United for Monza
“Omari Nathan Forson is a new player for Monza,” reads a statement which makes clear just how much of a coup the Biancorossi feel they are getting.
“His brilliant growth path led him to be added to the first-team in the summer of 2023. One of the most promising prospects born in Europe in 2004, Forson is the first new signing of Monza 2024/25.
“Welcome Omari!”
Forson signs a long-term deal at Monza until the summer of 2028.
Once of West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur at youth level, Forson also links up with a team who – guided by former AC Milan director Adriano Galliani – finished an impressive 12th in Serie A last term.
The versatile teenager averaged a goal or an assist in every one of his six Premier League 2 appearances in 2023/24, and was obviously very well liked by Ten Hag.
Serie A move confirmed today
Tom Huddlestone, who spent some time coaching Forson in the academy, drew comparisons with one of the finest forwards in world football a few months back too.
“He reminds me of the way (Arsenal and England superstar) Bukayo Saka plays,” Huddlestone told SPORTbible.
“He’s good with both feet and can finish very well, especially with his left foot.”
“On the pitch he was part of our successful FA Youth Cup-winning squad in 2022,” pointed out United’s academy director Nick Cox.
“Interestingly, Omari didn’t feature heavily in the cup run but showed exceptional resilience, and that’s a reminder that the journey isn’t always smooth and straightforward.
“I would like to say well done to all of the staff who have played an important role in supporting Omari to this point. You each know who you are.
“But most of all congratulations to Omari. Ultimately, while the academy offers expertise and support, it is down to the player to take ownership of their own development, often with great support from important individuals outside of the club such as parents, family and friends.”
Forson is the latest player to leave for free after Raphael Varane, Anthony Martial and Brandon Williams.