
Who is Jack Harrison? Jack David Harrison, born on November 20, 1996, in Stoke-on-Trent, England, is a professional footballer known for his journey from the Manchester United academy to the English Premier League. Harrison's career took a unique turn when he left Manchester United at 14 to attend Berkshire School in Massachusetts, USA. This bold move, influenced by his mother, Debbie, set the stage for his rise in American soccer. From winning the Gatorade National Player of the Year award to being the #1 overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft, Harrison's path has been anything but ordinary. Today, he shines as a key player for Leeds United in the Premier League.
Key Takeaways:
- Jack Harrison's journey from England to the United States shaped his successful football career, earning accolades in college and the MLS before making a significant impact in the Premier League with Leeds United.
- Despite leaving the Manchester United academy at 14, Jack Harrison's bold move to the U.S. and his subsequent success in the MLS paved the way for a remarkable career, including a standout performance in the Premier League.
Early Life and Education
Jack Harrison's journey began in England, but his path took some unexpected turns early on.
- 01Jack David Harrison was born on November 20, 1996, in Stoke-on-Trent, England.
- 02Raised in Bolton, Greater Manchester, he attended Harwood Meadows Primary School and Turton Secondary School.
- 03At just six years old, Harrison started training at the Liverpool Football Academy.
- 04By eight, he had moved to the Manchester United Academy, where he spent seven years honing his skills.
- 05At 14, Harrison made a bold move, leaving the Manchester United academy to attend Berkshire School in Massachusetts, USA, influenced by his mother, Debbie.
Rise in the United States
Harrison's time in the U.S. was pivotal, shaping his future in football.
- 06At Berkshire School, Harrison won the Gatorade National Player of the Year award in 2015, a prestigious honor.
- 07He was one of only four overseas players to achieve this award since 2012.
- 08Harrison signed a National Letter of Intent to play college soccer for Wake Forest University in North Carolina.
- 09In his freshman year at Wake Forest, he made 22 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing 11 assists.
- 10His college performances earned him several accolades, including ACC Freshman of the Year and NSCAA All-American First Team honors.
MLS and Early Professional Career
Harrison's professional career took off in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
- 11In 2016, Harrison was selected as the #1 overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft by New York City FC.
- 12During his rookie season, he was named the #2 best player in MLS under the age of 24.
- 13Harrison played for New York City FC from 2016 to 2017, making a significant impact on the team.
- 14His performances in the MLS earned him a call-up to the England U21 team in 2017.
- 15In January 2018, Harrison transferred to Manchester City, one of the highest outgoing transfer fees in MLS history.
Loan Spells and Breakthrough at Leeds United
Harrison's journey continued with loan spells that shaped his career.
- 16Harrison was loaned to Middlesbrough and then to Leeds United.
- 17His performances at Leeds were instrumental in helping the team gain promotion to the Premier League in 2020.
- 18In the 2019-20 season, Leeds United, with Harrison on loan, won the EFL Championship.
- 19In 2021, Leeds United signed Harrison on a permanent deal, marking a significant milestone in his career.
- 20Harrison made his Premier League debut for Leeds United on September 12, 2020, scoring his first goal against Liverpool.
Premier League Success
Harrison's time in the Premier League has been marked by impressive performances.
- 21In his first Premier League season, Harrison scored eight goals and provided eight assists, helping Leeds finish in 9th place.
- 22He has had several man of the match performances, including a standout performance in a 4-0 win over Burnley on May 15, 2021.
- 23Harrison's mother, Debbie, played a crucial role in his career decisions, including his move to the U.S.
- 24Fans and media often refer to Harrison by his nickname, 'Goldie.'
- 25Despite his football focus, Harrison holds a degree in Business Management from Wake Forest University.
Awards and Recognition
Harrison's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades.
- 26During his college years, Harrison received several accolades, including being named the ACC Freshman of the Year and an NSCAA All-American First Team member.
- 27In 2017, Harrison was ranked as the #2 best player in MLS under the age of 24.
- 28His contributions to Leeds United were instrumental in their promotion to the Premier League in 2020.
- 29Harrison formed a dynamic trio with Patrick Bamford and Raphinha under Marcelo Bielsa, contributing to the team's success.
- 30Harrison has achieved several career milestones, including making his 100th appearance for Leeds United and scoring multiple goals in a single season.
Jack Harrison: A Rising Star
Jack Harrison's journey from Manchester United academy to Premier League standout is nothing short of inspiring. Leaving Manchester United at 14, he took a bold step by moving to the U.S. for better opportunities. His time at Berkshire School and Wake Forest University laid a solid foundation, earning him accolades like the Gatorade National Player of the Year.
Drafted first overall by New York City FC, Harrison quickly made a name for himself in the MLS. His move to Manchester City and subsequent loan to Leeds United proved pivotal. Helping Leeds gain promotion to the Premier League, he secured a permanent spot on the team.
With impressive performances, including multiple man of the match awards, Harrison continues to shine. His story is a testament to hard work, strategic decisions, and unwavering support from his family. Keep an eye on this rising star.
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