Manchester United’s list of exits this month is beginning to pile up, and Rhys Bennett is the latest to make his move.
At the age of 22, following several loans to football league sides, Rhys Bennett’s time at Old Trafford has come to a close.
Over the past couple of years, Bennett has outgrown academy football, yet hasn’t made strides into the first team for Manchester United.
As a result, Bennett has been a likely January exit; however, it would have been expected to be a loan move.
But now, Bennett has completed a permanent move away from the club, with confirmation coming on Saturday.
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Rhys Bennett completes move to Fleetwood Town
After speculation, Bennett officially confirmed his move to Fleetwood Town on Saturday.
Joining for an undisclosed fee on a two and a half year contract, it represents his first steps away from Old Trafford.
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Bennett was at Fleetwood on loan last season, impressing massively in this time, and now they have him permanently.
Speaking after the deal was announced on the Fleetwood official website, Bennett expressed his excitement.
“I’m absolutely buzzing to be back here,” he said. “From the moment I came in last time, it just felt like a family. I’m really excited to pick up where I left off and get back playing football.”
Continuing, he discussed his loan at Fleetwood.
“The style of football really worked for me. We wanted to play, be comfortable on the ball, and the back five suited me. There are a lot of good players here, and that helped me kick on.
“I’ve just turned 22, and I think now is the time to kick on and play as many games as I can,” he said. “I’ve been out on loan, I’ve played a lot of football, and it’s about getting more experience and growing as a player and as a person.
“The technical detail is really high, and that’s something I love. I care a lot about my football and improving, and that was a big part of why coming back felt right.”
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Bennett to link up with Manchester United loanee Ethan Ennis
Bennett sounds clearly thrilled to be at his new club, with plenty of professional minutes awaiting him.
But he still paid tribute to United.
“I spent 16 years there, and they helped me every step of the way,” he said. “I’m really thankful to everyone for helping me grow, on and off the pitch.”
It won’t be all new for Bennett at Fleetwood, with Ethan Ennis currently in impressive form for the League Two side, being a familiar face.
“I’ve always been close with Ethan,” Bennett said. “He’s a top player and a top lad, so I’m looking forward to playing alongside him again.”
This move could ignite a career for Bennett, and we’ll be keeping an eye on how he does.
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