While much of the attention will be on Ruud van Nistelrooy’s efforts to stabilise Manchester United ahead of new manager Ruben Amorim’s arrival, the Europa League clash against PAOK Thessaloniki FC also marks a special homecoming for former United prodigy Shola Shoretire.
Once heralded as one of Manchester United’s brightest young talents, Shoretire won the club’s Jimmy Murphy Young Player of the Year Award in the 2020/21 season. He made his Premier League debut at just 17 and remains the youngest player to represent United in European competition.
In pursuit of more game time, Shoretire joined Bolton Wanderers on loan in January 2023 before signing with PAOK on a free transfer in July 2024. The forward has already begun making an impact, scoring his first goal for the Greek side in a cup tie against Egaleo. Now, just a week later, he is set to face his boyhood club on the grand stage of Old Trafford.
“It was difficult to leave, but I felt it was the right moment for my career,” Shoretire said ahead of the game. “PAOK seemed like a very good club to join, and I’m happy with how things have gone so far.”
Despite the sentimental return, Shoretire is clear about his mission. “We’re here to win. That’s why we’ve come, and I believe we can do it,” he added.
Asked whether his knowledge of Manchester United could influence PAOK’s strategy, Shoretire was quick to downplay any such advantage. “The coach knows what he’s doing; he’s much smarter than me when it comes to football. It’ll be a fair game, and we’re all looking forward to it.”
When pressed on whether he would celebrate if he scored against his former club, Shoretire was unequivocal. “I’ve been asked this a lot by friends and teammates, and my answer is no. I have too much respect for United and everything they’ve done for me. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
