Academy Manager Dom Knighton looks back on the past year for Cambridge United Academy…
2025 was a year defined by growth, opportunity and clear evidence of just how pivotal our academy is – and will continue to be – within our football strategy.
It was another season that saw an increased contribution from academy graduates across both league and cup competitions. Homegrown, club-developed players accounted for 14% of our EFL League Two match minutes, rising to 25% in cup competitions.
The year also highlighted the tangible benefits of our training ground facilities, particularly through the integration of the youth and first team. This included U18s training regularly with the first team, first-team staff providing additional individual development work, and the use of in-house fixtures to support progression.
Loan Strategy
Our loan programme continues to be an invaluable part of our player development pathway as young players transition into senior football. In 2026, a significant number of our academy players gained experience on non-league loans from step 4 through to step 2, helping to bridge the gap between U18s football and the first team.
A huge thank you to all the clubs we continue to work closely with in supporting this process.
Cambridge United in Europe
Our academy players have once again represented the football club across Europe, competing against elite opposition and gaining invaluable experience.
- U15s – Pape Cup, Magdeburg (Germany)
- U14s – Riga Cup (Latvia)
- U12s – Heiden Cup (Germany)
- U13s – Dongle Cup (Germany)
- U10s – MSG Cup (Germany)
- U12s – Holten Cup (Germany)
- U11s – Moerdijk Cup (Holland)
- U9s – North West Tour (England)
Liam Bennett Milestone
In May 2025, Liam Bennett signed a new contract, becoming the club’s longest-serving first-team player. A brilliant personal achievement, and a powerful example to our young players of what can be achieved through attitude, commitment and consistency.
Record Sales, Debuts and International Call-Ups
2025 saw the club receive a record academy transfer, with U16 defender Daniel Nneji joining Premier League side Brighton & Hove Albion. Daniel had developed within our academy since the age of 10-years-old.
Just three months later, 16-year-old Lohan McDougald (2009) made his debut for our first team demonstrating the strength of depth within our academy programme.
There was also international recognition amongst our players, with U15 goalkeeper Jacob Newman receiving an England call-up, while U18 forward Samuel Okolie represented Seychelles in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
First Team Momentum
December provided a special moment in the second round of the FA Cup, as five academy graduates featured on the pitch during our victory over League One opposition Stockport County.
Liam Bennett, Mamadou Jobe, Glenn McConnell, George Hoddle and George Munday all played their part, with second-year scholar Jahrel McKoy named on the bench.
The month also saw George Hoddle sign a new contract with the club following a series of impressive performances for the first-team.
Looking Ahead
We are constantly looking to develop our academy, with a proactive approach and preparing for the future. 2026 will see us continuing to strive for more, evolving our programme and continuing to 'recruit and develop our players' whilst 'creating pathways for our young players to compete at the highest level'.
To be able to do this requires a long-term commitment and strong belief. A sincere thank you to our owners and the board for their continued support.
