What's happened
Angel Gomes, the Lille midfielder and former Manchester United player, has received his first senior England call-up. The 24-year-old credits his godfather, Nani, for being a significant influence on his career as he prepares for upcoming international matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Sunny Badwal in The Independent, Gomes expressed gratitude for Nani's influence, stating, "He’s been a big influence, he’s someone that will check up on me." David Hytner from The Guardian noted Gomes' journey from a Manchester United wonderkid to a Lille standout, emphasizing his resilience during challenging times. Richard Jolly also highlighted Gomes' commitment to representing England, despite interest from Portugal, reinforcing his dedication to his chosen national team.
How we got here
Gomes, who left Manchester United in 2020 after a promising start, has rebuilt his career in France. His recent performances at Lille have led to his selection for the England squad, marking a significant milestone in his journey.
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