Manchester United youngster receives surprise call-up to Russia national team

Manchester United youngster Amir Ibragimov has been included in Russia’s expanded senior squad for their upcoming friendlies.

The 18-year-old is eligible to represent both England and Russia, and has previously represented the Three Lions at youth level.

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Though yet to declare his international allegiance at senior level, Ibragimov could face a big decision over the coming days.

That is because he has been included in Russia’s 36-man expanded squad for their upcoming friendlies against Egypt, Burkina Faso and Trinidad and Tobago.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Ibragimov is currently weighing up his international future.

But with his mind not yet made up, the youngster is not confirmed to be joining up with Russia’s senior team later this month.

Born in Dagestan, Russia, Ibragimov moved to England with his family at the age of 11, and therefore qualifies for both countries.

But while he will now consider whether to commit to his nation of birth, the Man United starlet at least doesn’t have to think about the added complication of a major tournament.

Russia will not be a part of the World Cup this summer having been banned by FIFA following the invasion of Ukraine.

They were banned from qualifying in 2025, thus missing out on the tournament this summer, but have continued to take part in international friendlies.

Who is Amir Ibragimov?

Ibragimov is one of the most highly rated prospects in Man United’s academy.

He trained with the first-team for the first time three years ago at just 15, and has continued to progress through the ranks.

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The rising star divides his playing time between their Under-21 and Under-18 sides, having made the step up after impressing with the latter last season.

In the 2024/25 campaign, Ibragimov scored eight goals and assisting six more in 22 U18 Premier League appearances.

He was also a regular in the Red Devils’ side that reached the FA Youth Cup semi-finals that year, and played four times in the Premier League 2 for the Under-21s.

However, injuries have halted his progress this term, and the midfielder only returned from a five-month absence in United’s Premier League Cup final defeat to Crystal Palace in April.

Ibragimov’s struggles this term have limited him to just four goals and two assists in 15 appearances across United’s youth teams.

But all signs pointed to a bright future, with his exploits in the Man United academy earning him international recognition.

He has represented England’s U15 and U16 sides, making a combined three appearances, and scoring once.

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The youngster has been tipped as a future football star, but he is not the only sporting member of his family.

Both of his younger brothers, Gazi and Muhammad, also play across United’s youth teams.

Meanwhile his older brother, Ibragim, is a professional MMA fighter who fights out of Manchester.