Manchester United youngster Gabriele Biancheri produced a match-winning performance for the under-21s.
Manchester United’s under-21 side got off to a winning start in the Premier League International Cup with a 2-1 win over Athletic Club.
Athletic had the perfect start when Asier Hierro curled in a free-kick from the edge of the box in the 12th minute.
The Spanish side were the better side for most of the first half, before a second half substitution changed the game.
Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty ImagesGabriele Biancheri wins the game for Man Utd
Gabriele Biancheri was one of four substitutes thrown on in the 61st minute as Travis Binnion looked to freshen up his side. He replaced starter Victor Musa.
Wales under-21 international Biancheri created the equalising goal with a forceful run down Manchester United’s right wing.
Biancheri spotted James Scanlon’s movement inside the box, and squared the ball superbly for the Gibraltar international to score.
There was better to come, with fellow substitute Amir Ibragimov beginning a move down the left in stoppage time, playing in Jack Fletcher.
Fletcher’s clever run into the box gave him an opportunity to cross the ball low to Biancheri, who struck his shot first time.
Biancheri’s effort cannoned in off the post and the opposition goalkeeper to clinch the 2-1 win with the final kick of the game.
Gabriele Biancheri up and running
Gabriele Biancheri scored 25 goals in all competitions for Manchester United’s academy teams during the 2024/25 season.
This goal was his first of the season in 2025/26, and he will be delighted to get up and running for the new season.
Biancheri, 19, was wanted by clubs for a loan move in the summer, but Manchester United chose to keep him around.
United rate the former Cardiff City talent highly and believe he can push Chido Obi’s development and state his own first team case himself.
This game at Old Trafford against Athletic Club was a great test for Biancheri’s credentials, and in limited time, he made a big impression.