Amad, Andre Onana and Casemiro provided an unforgettable and inspiring surprise for pupils from four of Manchester United Foundation’s partner schools at Old Trafford.

The Manchester United trio joined in with the young people in a series of educational workshops at the Theatre of Dreams, centred around Black History Month.

The participants got to work on various activities, which included celebrating champions of black history and shining a light on impactful figures from yesteryear, both in wider society and those who have represented Manchester United in the past.

There was even greater inspiration for the young people when they came face-to-face with the Reds stars, making a surprise appearance in their lessons.

“It felt amazing meeting the players, they gave me some good advice, in life and football,” said Kingsway Park High School pupil, Carlos. “They told me you have to have the right mentality to go far in life.

“It didn’t feel real, it was like it was a dream. But then you see them right next to you, shaking your hand, taking pictures and signing shirts – I’m going to remember it for the rest of my life.”

“Casemiro is one of my favourite players – it was a big, big deal to see him,” added Dean Trust Ardwick student, Ajra.

“It was fun to speak to everyone and it gives me a new outlook, because I’ve learned so much more than I usually do in school. It helps me connect more to my friends and Black history in general.”

High Schools Partnerships Co-ordinator Ryan Kessebeh further explained the impact that the players’ input had made on the young people: “It was good to get the players’ perspectives on black history and to share their experiences of their culture, and also having our participants share what Black history means to them.

“It’s really important to be getting words of wisdom from your role models, it’s that extra one per cent that some of our participants may need, that encouragement and motivation to go and achieve greatness themselves.”

It proved to be a mutually beneficial experience for all involved, players included, as Andre Onana reflected: “I had a great time with them, we spoke about the people who inspired me, and we had some nice conversations.

“For them, I’m maybe someone who gives them hope and belief. It’s good to discuss and know that everything in life is temporary, so we have to look after each other and grow.”