How to watch our Lifeblood Short: U16s in Hong Kong
Experience a life-changing trip to Hong Kong from the perspective of a United Academy player in the latest short film from MUTV Originals’ Lifeblood series, available to watch for registered users this Friday.
In a unique documentary on one of the most special weeks in any Academy youngster’s life, Lifeblood follows the club’s Under-16s from Carrington to Hong Kong, where they play two friendlies in front of big stadium crowds, get to know their local counterparts and learn about the culture.
The trip is one of many during the Academy journey, with every young United player travelling around the country or abroad throughout the season to face challenging opponents and have the opportunity for personal growth. Few, however, take the young Reds as far out of their comfort zone as this one.
Trailer | Lifeblood Short: U16s in Hong Kong
COMING SOON | Berbatov and O'Shea star in the latest Lifeblood film, travelling with our U16s to Hong Kong...
While exposure to new opposition is key to these trips, learning how to represent United is equally important and the players were helped this year in Hong Kong by two former players: Dimitar Berbatov and John O’Shea.
In 'Lifeblood Short: U16s in Hong Kong', Berba participates in a dragon boat race with the United youngsters, as well as answering their questions, while O’Shea coaches and joins martial arts training.
“It’s great to speak with the kids and just show them how we used to do things. If some of the boys like something they see, maybe they take it, put it into day-to-day life and maybe put it into their game as well.”
“I think it’s great to bring old players to come back and speak with the kids and just show them how we used to do things,” reflects Berbatov.
“And if some of the boys like something they see, maybe they take it, put it into day-to-day life and maybe put it into their game as well. It’s good to pass the torch.”
"It's brilliant to be asked to come over to Hong Kong... we've been on a few pre-season tours here and it's been an amazing experience. It's tough training as well and the younger players have experienced that now."
From seeing inside the dressing room pre-match to climbing up big Buddha, this is a fascinating insight into how the Academy’s trips open young footballers’ eyes to the world through sport.
'Lifeblood Short: U16s in Hong Kong' will be available on demand from 19:00 BST on Friday 11 October, from which point it will be available to watch for all registered users on ManUtd.com and the United app. Register now to watch on Friday.