In the 39 minutes of play at the Emirates, Toby Collyer left a deep impression on Man United fans. The 21-year-old star not only impressed with his abundant physical strength but also his ability to cover the space when defending against Arsenal in the FA Cup.
With The Red Devils playing with only 10 men, captain Ruben Amorim's bold decision to bring Collyer on to replace Kobbie Mainoo was well rewarded. Instead of choosing experienced players like Casemiro or Christian Eriksen, the Portuguese coach believed in Collyer's youth and the English midfielder did not disappoint him.
Collyer made 8 successful defenses in the match, half of which came in the home team's penalty area. The 2004-born talent's saves not only help reduce pressure from Arsenal's attack but also show their acumen in reading the game. In addition, Collyer has also actively supported full-back Tyrell Malacia by often dropping to the left wing to strengthen the defense.
Collyer's form has received praise from many people, including Rio Ferdinand, a former Man United centre-back. On his personal YouTube channel, the "Red Devils" legend emphasized: "Toby Collyer is really excellent. His energy is beyond expectations, a testament to his constant diligence. Captain Bruno Fernandes also sent his junior the following message: A worthy opportunity. Keep trying, kid!
Toby Collyer has faced many difficulties since joining the first team of Man United. The injury he suffered while playing for the England U20 team last October caused him to miss the end of Erik ten Hag's tenure and the entire time of interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy's leadership. This has caused the 21-year-old star to start slower than his teammates when Ruben Amorim took over the team.
However, Collyer has gradually regained his rhythm. After being on the list for 4 times but not playing, his performance against Arsenal was an opportunity for him to assert himself. So far, he has only played 205 minutes in the first team, spanning 4 different arenas, including Community Shield.
With outstanding physical strength, good fighting ability and endurance, Collyer impressed Erik ten Hag in his training sessions in early 2024. Under Amorim, the transition to a 3-4-3 formation seems to suit the English midfielder's playing style. This system requires good physical strength and the ability to maintain high intensity, which Collyer has proven to be his strength.
However, the 21-year-old still needs to improve his ability to pass long balls and rotate the ball, factors that Amorim is demanding more from midfielders. If he can perfect this skill, Collyer will not only stop at the rotation role but can also become the official choice for the first team.
Collyer's current contract with Man United lasts until the summer of 2027, with an option to extend for another year. The Old Trafford outfit have no plans to let him go on loan this month, especially as Casemiro and Eriksen's form is no longer convincing. Although there is still much to learn, Collyer's dynamism, enthusiasm and fighting spirit are big pluss in Amorim's eyes.
