Januzaj situation evokes echoes of Pogba’s Manchester United exit

However, with United boasting a wealth of world class stars purchased in last summer’s transfer frenzy, youth prospects at Old Trafford could face a longer wait to secure regular first-team action.

Former midfielder Paul Pogba, now of Serie A champions Juventus, bitterly left Old Trafford in 2012 after failing to convince Ferguson he was capable of handling regular top-flight football.

Since his departure, the Frenchman has rocketed to success in Turin becoming one of the world’s hottest prospects, with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona reportedly circling for his signature.

Pogba’s magnificent rise to prominence since leaving the Premier League has proved to be one of Ferguson’s few fatal mistakes as United manager, and one current coach Van Gaal should consider a learning tree moment when dealing with his crop of raw talent.

Jesse Lingard was secured on a new long-term deal before being shipped out on loan to Championship promotion contenders Derby County, but does Van Gaal risk losing Januzaj, James Wilson and Paddy McNair because of current competition for places?

Red Devils forward Wilson has taken his chances fantastically when utilised from the bench, frequently replacing Robin van Persie and Radamel Falcao in domestic games. Northern Irish youngster McNair, meanwhile, has deputised in defence impressively, following several key injuries and absences to senior players.

Although, with Pogba’s departure in mind, young United starlets may choose to seek a prolonged career elsewhere, as competition for their positions increase with each passing summer transfer window.

Their future could depend on whether Dutch manager Van Gaal is willing to learn from the club’s previous mistakes, and how much more money is splashed in the summer, with a return to Champions League football looking likely next season.

Van Gaal’s rejuvenated Red Devils have climbed to third in the Premier League table and are odds-on 4/11 to finish in the top four.