Stoke City is entering a crucial phase of the EFL Championship season, aiming to find consistency under new manager Mark Robins. While the team has shown glimpses of promise, maintaining a steady level of performance remains a challenge.
Robins has been working tirelessly to implement his tactics and elevate the squad, and now he has secured a promising young player to strengthen the club’s long-term vision.
The latest addition to the team is Ruben Curley, a 19-year-old midfielder signed from Manchester United’s academy. While he is initially expected to join Stoke City's U21 squad, his technical ability and attacking instincts could see him push for first-team opportunities sooner rather than later.
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A Strong Track Record in Youth Football
Curley arrives with an impressive background, having developed at one of England’s top academies. During his time at Manchester United’s youth setup, he featured in 41 matches, scoring three goals and providing four assists.
Welcome to the Potteries, Ruben Curley.
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) February 4, 2025
The 19-year-old midfielder, who was named Manchester United's Scholar of the Year in 23/24, links up with City's Under 21s.
His contributions were especially valuable in the English Youth League U18, where he played a key role in helping Manchester United U18 secure the title in the 2023-24 season.
A versatile midfielder capable of playing both centrally and in attacking roles, Curley’s development will be closely monitored. Stoke City sees him as a player with significant potential, and depending on his progress, he could earn minutes under Mark Robins in the first team.
Stoke City’s Commitment to Youth Development
This signing highlights Stoke City’s commitment to integrating young talent into its squad. With Robins looking to revitalize the team, players like Curley represent a fresh injection of energy and ambition.
While he is still at an early stage of his career, his skillset and experience at Manchester United make him a valuable addition to the club’s project.
For now, the focus will be on his adaptation to Stoke City, but if he continues to impress, fans might see Curley making his senior debut sooner than expected.