Manchester United’s Rising Star Called Up to Australia’s International Squad
James Overy, a 17-year-old defender from Manchester United’s academy, has been selected for Australia’s squad to face Colombia and Venezuela in upcoming friendly matches. This move reflects coach Tony Popovic’s strategy to deepen the team’s options ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Squad Announcement and Key Returns
Coach Popovic included seven uncapped players in the 26-man squad, emphasizing the importance of building a strong team for the future. Alongside Overy, other newcomers expected to earn their first caps are Al Hassan Toure from Sydney FC, who will join his brother Mohamed Toure, and Deni Juric, a striker playing in Poland.
- Melbourne City's Patrick Beach
- Centre back Kai Trewin
- Sydney FC's Paul Okon-Engstler
- Scotland-born Jack Iredale
“Manchester United's promising talent, James Overy, has been named in Australia's squad for friendlies against Colombia and Venezuela.”
Veteran winger Craig Goodwin also returns to the national squad for the first time since March, following his transfer back to Adelaide City in the A-League.
About James Overy
Overy joined Manchester United’s academy last year as a right-back and has yet to debut for the senior Premier League team. His potential was recently underscored by his participation in the under-20 World Cup squad.
Coach Tony Popovic’s Vision
Popovic’s focus on integrating young talent reflects his ambition to create a robust Australian squad for the 2026 World Cup scheduled in North America.
“The recently released 26-man squad features seven uncapped players as Popovic aims to build a robust lineup ahead of the 2026 World Cup.”
Author’s summary: Manchester United academy’s James Overy joins a youthful Australia squad, signaling the coach's push to enhance team strength ahead of the 2026 World Cup.