MUFC Profile – Harry McCarthy

THE opportunity to develop his game with hardened, senior players at Manly United is the chief reason why Harry McCarthy has jumped ship from Sydney FC.

At just 17, he is a player to watch, having represented the Australian Schoolboys on a tour in the United Kingdom in 2018.

The teenager was quick to point out there were no hard feelings with the Sky Blues – he simply saw an opportunity at Cromer Park and backed himself to succeed.

“I played my junior football at Manly, so once the opportunity popped up I figured why not give it a go,” he said.

“It is a fresh start and I’m looking to learn on the run.”

McCarthy, who can play up top as a nine or out wide, made a cameo off the bench versus Blacktown last round, but is seeking more game time this Sunday versus Sutherland.

“Hopefully I can get a few more minutes, I guess we will wait and see,” he said.

“All the guys have been great, very welcoming, especially Sam Gallagher.”

McCarthy was a standout Manly junior from the under-11s onwards until the 16s, excluding one season with Football NSW.

After then playing Sydney FC 18s and 20s, he left his mark, but returning to his ‘home’ on the northern beaches proved to be a dangling carrot he couldn’t ignore.

Away from football, the talented youngster is studying for his HSC at the Northern Beaches Secondary Campus at Freshwater.

Beyond 2019, he remains undecided where he football future will be – Manly fans will be hoping he stays put.