From Barnsley academy to Everton talent, sparking interest from Pep Guardiola and recently almost joining Ajax – a look into the new Reggae Boyz recruit
Mason Holgate, starting his new International chapter (Photo: JFF)
Mason Holgate, the Reggae Boyz' newest recruit, has received his first call-up after being recently cleared by FIFA to represent Jamaica. National team coach Steve McClaren expressed the importance of Holgate’s addition, stating, "We’ve been pursuing him since before I arrived. With significant help from the president, especially in pushing through passport applications for players with Jamaican heritage."
Holgate made several appearances for England's youth teams, However, he seized the opportunity to represent Jamaica, thanks to his grandmother's Jamaican roots.
Holgate's journey to international football began in the youth academy of Barnsley, where he quickly distinguished himself with a skill set well beyond his years. His early promise did not go unnoticed, catching the eye of Premier League scouts. In 2015, Holgate made a significant step up in his career, securing a move to Everton, where his defensive prowess continued to grow.
Former Everton manager Roberto Martínez labeled Mason Holgate as 'phenomenal' upon his arrival at the club, recognizing his potential early on. “With Mason, an opportunity came up and we didn’t want to lose out,” Martínez once said. “He is a young man with a very impressive future.” However, Holgate wasn’t promoted to the first-team squad until the tenure of Ronald Koeman, where he finally began to showcase his talent on a bigger stage.
His adaptability and performances at Everton did not go unnoticed. Holgate garnered interest from several top clubs, most notably Manchester City. The possibility of a part-exchange deal involving former Everton defender John Stones was even suggested, highlighting Holgate’s rising stock in English football.
Former City midfielder Michael Brown weighed in on the situation, noting how an opportunity to learn under City manager Pep Guardiola would have been tempting for the young defender. “Well, the fact of the matter is he won’t want to turn it down,” Brown told Football Insider. “And that’s no disrespect to Everton, he’s done great there, he’s looking good and it looks like he’s going to play games.”
Despite speculation surrounding his future, Mason Holgate remained at Everton for several seasons, establishing himself as a solid and reliable defender. However, consistent minutes were often elusive during his time with the Toffees. His highest number of league appearances in a single season was 28, achieved during the 2020/21 campaign. Over the years, Holgate also sought regular playing time through loan spells, including at West Bromwich Albion in 2019, Southampton, and more recently at Sheffield United last season.
In the most recent transfer window, Holgate sought more regular minutes and decided to rejoin Championship side West Bromwich Albion on loan. The move was aimed at securing more playing time and maintaining consistency on the pitch as he continues his development.
According to reports, Holgate has also attracted interest from several clubs, including Dutch giants Ajax, Ligue 1 Side Lyon, and Champions' Sheffield Wednesday. However, he opted to rejoin West Bromwich Albion in hopes of securing more playing time. Despite this, Holgate has yet to make any Championship appearances this season, as he works towards reestablishing his place in the squad.
As he becomes an integral part of the Reggae Boyz squad, Holgate has the opportunity to enhance both his standing on the global stage and his value at the club level.
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