Former Manchester United defender Timothy Fosu-Mensah has described his recent struggles to return to top-level football as a fresh beginning, following what he labelled a “messy” period involving agents and missed opportunities.
The 27-year-old, who has now been a free agent for over a year, is determined to revive his career and is working tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare for a potential return ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Born in the Netherlands to Ghanaian parents, Fosu-Mensah rose through the youth ranks at Ajax before joining United’s academy, where he made 30 senior appearances.
His career took him to Bayer Leverkusen in 2021, but since leaving the Bundesliga side, he has faced numerous hurdles in securing a new club.
“Last season was the first time in my career that I’ve spent without a team,” he said. “At this age, it’s quite early and I think quite strange for people.”
He admitted that off-field complications, particularly with unauthorised agents, contributed to the instability.
“There was a couple of situations with agents here and there, which was a bit of a mess. People were speaking on my name who I never even had contact with.”
Fosu-Mensah revealed that offers to clubs such as Stoke City and Middlesbrough were made without his consent.
“Some of them I was aware of, some of them I wasn’t,” he added, reflecting on how confusion around his representation damaged potential opportunities.
Despite the setbacks, Fosu-Mensah remains positive and focused on returning stronger.
“It’s definitely a fresh start and I’ve been working hard,” he said. “Hard work won’t go unnoticed.”
His last competitive appearance was in April 2023, but with his fitness regime in full swing, he is hopeful that a return to the professional ranks is within reach.
