Sheffield Wednesday secure striker Charlie McNeill from Manchester United
Charlie McNeill Credit: None
Sheffield Wednesday have bolstered their squad with the permanent signing of 20-year-old striker Charlie McNeill, who recently departed from Manchester United. McNeill becomes the Owls' eighth signing this summer.
Having started his youth career at Manchester United, McNeill switched to Manchester City where he built a formidable reputation as a goal scorer. United later re-signed him for a reported £750,000.
McNeill's talent was evident as he netted 24 goals in 21 matches for United's Under-18 team and played a key role in their 2022 FA Youth Cup victory alongside Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
Erik ten Hag, United's current manager, awarded McNeill his senior debut in a Europa League match against Real Sociedad in September 2022.
Following loan stints at Newport and Stevenage, McNeill has now committed to Sheffield Wednesday. Reflecting on his move, McNeill expressed his excitement: “I’m absolutely buzzing to finally get it done. The manager really wanted me, and that’s special to me.”
McNeill had previously joined the club on work experience: “I came here two years ago under the previous manager and really liked it. I knew a few of the lads from then, which was good. Last season, I came here under Danny and really liked his style of play. That made me want to join the club.”
Manager Danny Rohl's influence was pivotal: “He expects me to work hard, contribute goals, assists, and overall effort for the team. I'm ready to bring all that.”
While McNeill has enjoyed success at the youth level with both Manchester clubs, he sees this move as a crucial step in his career: “I had a great time in academy football and achieved a lot. But now this is where it really starts, in proper men's football. I've had a taste of it at Newport and Stevenage, but now I can't wait to get going.”
Joining the club during pre-season training is a chance for McNeill to bond with his new teammates: “I can't wait to meet everyone and get to know them. I know I'm not going to play every game because it's a massive squad with very good players, but I'm hoping to play a lot of games this season.”
McNeill also reflected on his eagerness to help the team: “I'll work hard every game. Trying to get goals and assists, just helping the team. You know, even if I'm not playing, you know, coming off the bench, making impacts just helping the squad in every way possible that I can."
