Manchester United Teen James Overy Receives Surprise Socceroos Call-Up
James Overy, soon to turn 18, has been regularly training with Manchester United’s first team under Ruben Amorim. He is now poised to make his senior international debut for Australia.
Popovic Announces Squad Full of Surprises
Tony Popovic has named a 25-man Socceroos squad for upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia, introducing 11 new players. This is the penultimate selection before finalizing the World Cup squad for 2026 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Young Talent and New Faces
Among the debutants, Overy stands out as the most unexpected inclusion. The Perth-born defender was the youngest player in the Young Socceroos squad at the recent FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, where the team won one of three group games but did not advance.
Overy’s Rapid Progression
Joining Manchester United’s academy last year, Overy has impressed manager Ruben Amorim and has been regularly invited to train with the Premier League club’s first team, though he has not yet played at senior level.
Tony Popovic unveiled the squad, saying it includes “11 new faces” ahead of crucial friendlies.
Overy was “the youngest member of the Young Socceroos side” at the U-20 World Cup.
Author’s summary: James Overy’s unexpected Socceroos call-up highlights his rapid rise from youth international to potential World Cup squad member within months of turning 18.