Shea Lacey’s reply to being called a ‘Man Utd success story’ shows the mindset the club needs to get back to winning again.
Shea Lacey has won praise from Manchester United fans for how he answered when asked if he was “a success story of the academy” after the Red Devils’ thrilling 3-2 comeback win against Roma.
Born in Liverpool, Lacey joined United’s academy when he was just seven years old. He came on as a substitute in the 75th minute for Amad Diallo and made a big impact in front of the Old Trafford fans.
The 19-year-old came on when United were down 2-1 and caused plenty of trouble for Roma’s full-back Gianluca Mancini.
Matheus Cunha scored the equalizer in the 83rd minute after Leonardo Balerdi couldn’t clear Fernandes’ lobbed pass.
Then Lacey set up the winning goal by passing to Cunha. His performance made some fans want Carrick to start him in the Premier League game against Aston Villa on November 8. But Lacey stayed humble in a post-match interview.
After the game, the interviewer told Lacey he was now “a success story” and “part of the club’s history.”
Fans loved his reply.
“Not yet a success story of our Academy,” Lacey said. “We’re working towards it, things are going well. Nights like tonight definitely help, but there’s still a long way to go.”
One fan said, “That’s the right mindset — the work isn’t done yet.”
Another wrote, “Humility will take him far. Hopefully, he stays grounded and gets more chances under Carrick.”
A third fan added, “He has so much potential. I really hope he makes it.”
Others noted how he seems mature for his age and that his time will come. One fan said, “Great mentality, not letting it get to his head. I’m cheering for him all the way.”
Lacey also talked about playing as a temporary right-back for the first time. “It was new to me, but sometimes you have to do what’s needed to help the team, and I think it went well.”
About the overall game, he said, “It was a special feeling. It’s been a long wait, but it felt amazing. The crowd’s energy in the second half was electric. When Bruno scored the penalty, momentum really shifted, and the winner made it a special moment.”
So far, Lacey has scored one goal and made one assist in 10 appearances for United’s senior team since his debut against Aston Villa in December 2025.
Even though he only came on late against Roma, Wayne Rooney thinks Carrick should start Lacey against Villa in the Premier League.
“That’s a brilliant touch and a perfect pass, and the finish was fantastic,” Rooney said about Lacey’s assist.
“When you watch it again, you might wonder if he could have passed to a teammate, but that first touch is what matters. He took the defender out of the play, and that pass was top class.
“We’ve talked about Amad doing good things, but it’s the final result that counts. Lacey has shown something special this season — that little skill and pass that helped United win this game.”
Fans also caught the unseen footage of Michael Carrick and Matheus Cunha after the red card incident.
Lacey’s humble attitude and exciting talent have made plenty of fans eager to see more from the young star.