Former Manchester United midfielder James Bailey has a new club after leaving the Reds in June following five years at Carrington
Released Manchester United midfielder James Bailey has joined League One side Stockport County. The Reds academy product left Carrington in June after not being offered a professional contract.
Bailey signed for United from Burnley in 2021. He made a positive early impression for the academy and made his under-18s debut under Travis Binnion in 2023, when he was just 15. The teenager went on to make his under-21s debut in 2025.
But United announced earlier this month that Bailey would be leaving alongside Malachi Sharpe and Sonny Aljofree. It has now been confirmed that he will be playing in English football’s third tier with Stockport.
The midfielder has already played for Stockport’s academy side in the season just gone, and academy director Mike Jeffries has now explained why Bailey, who has signed a two-year contract, deserves his first professional deal.
He said: “James has worked incredibly hard throughout his time in the Academy since joining from Manchester United and fully deserves this opportunity. He has shown a fantastic attitude, a strong commitment to his development, and a willingness to learn every day.
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“Signing a first professional contract is an important milestone, but it’s also the beginning of the next stage of his journey. We’re pleased with the progress he has made and believe he has the qualities, both on and off the pitch, to continue developing within the football club.
“Everyone in the Academy is proud of James and the dedication he has shown to reach this point. We look forward to supporting him as he takes the next steps in his career and continues to push for further opportunities.”
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Head of emerging talent Vinil Joseph added: “James is a player we have tracked for a considerable period of time. He is a tenacious midfielder who combines a strong competitive edge with excellent technical quality, highlighted by a fantastic left foot.
“We believe he possesses attributes required to thrive in a senior environment and continue his development at the club. We are delighted to welcome him and look forward to working with him over the coming years.”
Bailey has also shared his happiness at joining Stockport. writing on Instagram, he said: “Happy to have signed my first professional contract at @stockportcounty, New beginnings, Happy to get started.”
Former Reds academy colleagues Chido Obi, Samuel Lusale, Jacob Devaney, Dante Plunkett and Bassirou Nkoto were among those who wished him good luck in response.
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