Manchester United academy graduate confirms departure after six years at the club

Manchester United defender Di'Shon Bernard has confirmed that he is leaving the club after six years at Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old signed for the club from Chelsea in 2017, initially joining the United academy.

He made his Europa League debut for the club in 2019, but that would be his only competitive senior appearance for the Red Devils as a result of loan spells away from the club and injury problems.

Bernard moved to League Two side Salford on loan in 2020/21, before making the step up to Championship level with Hull the following season. He made 26 appearances for the Tigers.

He spent the second half of the 2022/23 season on loan at League One side Portsmouth after training with United's senior squad on several occasions.

During Erik ten Hag's spell in charge, Bernard was not named in a matchday squad at senior level by the Dutch manager, although did feature during a mid-season friendly against Cadiz.

Now, he has confirmed he will not be returning to Old Trafford.

Bernard confirms Man Utd exit

He wrote on Twitter: "Although my time at Manchester United has come to an end, I am nothing but proud of my journey so far with all the experiences and all the achievements I've accomplished along the way.

"A big thank you to all the staff, team-mates and anyone who has helped me on my journey."

Bernard signed a new long-term contract with United in 2021 which, as per the Manchester Evening News, committed him to Old Trafford until 2026. But he will now leave the club early in search of first team opportunities.

In a statement on their official website announcing Bernard's departure, United wrote: "Di'Shon will always be a part of the Academy family and welcome back at United.

"We are proud of his achievements to date and we look forward to seeing how the young centre-back's career unfolds."