Footballing legend Ronaldinho has reached out to Manchester United sensation Angel Gomes through social media and urged him to “smash it”.
The retired Brazil star sent the 16-year-old a video message from the comfort of a private jet, which Gomez later shared on Instagram.
In the social media post, the legendary player said: “Hello Angel, Ronaldinho here speaking. Big hug and good luck. All the best.
“I am following your progress. I wish you all the happiness in the world. Smash it! Soon we’ll get to meet each other.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BVCgLEsjEF_/?taken-by=angel.gomes10
Gomes, who has been capped seven times at England Under-17 level and has dual English and Portugese nationality, has moved up through the ranks at United after progressing to the Under 18s squad last summer.
The teenager made an even bigger move at the end of May when he made his first team debut during United’s last game of the season against Crystal Palace.
The starlet also made 20 youth team appearances for the club, netting 12 goals and providing six assist.
His exploits led to the academy prospect being named United’s Youth Team Player of the Year, which led to Gomes’ first team appearance shortly after.
The Englishman is the youngest ever player to be awarded the title, and he follows in the footsteps of well-known players such as Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, and Phil Neville.
Last year, Marcus Rashford was named the Youth Player of the Year and has since displayed an impressive season for the reds with the 19-year-old netting 11 goals and providing six assists during his staggering 52 appearances for the club.