Manchester United have decided not to enter the EFL Trophy or National League Cup for the 2026-27 campaign.
United sources say they have taken the decision because of a combination of returning to the Uefa Youth League following the senior side’s qualification for the Champions League and running a slightly smaller than normal professional development phase group of players, who transition between the under-18 and under-21 sides.
The club only entered the EFL Trophy in 2019, later than most Premier League clubs, after the competition was revamped, amid strong opposition, in 2016 to allow 16 academies to enter.
As recently as November 2024, Under-21s coach Travis Binnion, who has since moved into Michael Carrick’s senior set-up, said the competition provided some of the “best games”.
However, United failed to get out of the group stage last season. They were also eliminated from the league section of the National League Cup.
United played in 10 matches across both competitions, all before Christmas. They will play at least eight in the Youth League, which is for Under-19 sides.
The club will also continue to play in the Premier League Under-21 International Cup. Last season they reached the quarter-finals, where they were beaten by Real Madrid at Old Trafford.
United officials say they will take a decision on their 2027-28 youth games programme at a later stage.
Meanwhile, talks are continuing with Adam Lawrence to extend his stay as Under-21 manager.
Lawrence returned to United – after briefly leaving for Newcastle – following Binnion’s elevation to the senior ranks, which has now been cemented following Carrick’s appointment on a two-year contract.