Kai Rooney signs scholarship as he models game on Martinelli

Kai Rooney has signed his first‑year scholarship with Manchester United after joining the academy in 2020, declaring “Work starts now.” The 15‑year‑old says he models his game on former Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli rather than his father Wayne’s legacy. Sport senior sports journalist Bruna Reis reported the story at 22:28 on 15 Sep, with Comments and a View Image.

Scholarship milestone and academic success

He reached a major milestone this summer by signing the scholarship deal, stating “Work starts now.” The contract allows him to continue his studies, and he has already passed all his GCSEs. His mother Coleen celebrated the achievement on social media, writing “GCSE results day! Super proud @kairooney.10 – all passed and a place in 6th form!” OUR aim is to balance football with education.

The youngster has progressed quickly since joining Manchester United’s academy in 2020, moving through each age group with regular praise. His performances have attracted attention from coaches across the club, and he now dreams of one day playing for Man Utd’s first team.

His momentum was checked in March when an injury cut his season short, ruling him out of United’s FA Youth Cup final defeat to Manchester City. The setback delayed his involvement in the high‑profile match.

Wing role inspired by Martinelli

Initially deployed centrally like his father, Kai has shifted to the wing, where he can cut inside onto his left foot. He cites Gabriel Martinelli as the player he tries to emulate in that position.

Martinelli, the ex‑Arsenal winger, left the Emirates for Al Hilal in a £60 million transfer after making 278 appearances for the Gunners. His Premier League pedigree provides a clear template for the young United prospect.

In a November 2024 interview with club media, Martinelli explained, “Futsal was really important in my growth in football. You play in a smaller pitch or court and you have to think quicker. How you control the ball is different. You don’t have much space so it helps you a lot.”

The next significant landmark will arrive when Kai turns 17 and becomes eligible to sign a professional contract. His father Wayne has said he prefers to stay in the background, adding, “I think it’s very unfair for anyone to expect him to do all things. He’s just a 15‑year‑old boy playing his football, enjoying it.” The club’s MAN UTD development team will monitor his progress closely.