Ruben Amorim has wasted no time ringing in the changes at Manchester United, and the shake-up continues with a focus on the club’s young talent.
With United missing out on European football after a disastrous 15th-place Premier League finish and heartbreak in the Europa League final, the fixture list for the 2025/26 campaign has been drastically trimmed.
That reduction, which slashes around 20 games from the usual calendar, has forced United to seek immediate solutions for promising Academy players starved of senior football opportunities.
Multiple youngsters have already been lined up for loan exits, as Amorim looks to fast-track their development outside of Old Trafford.
And now, another name has officially joined that list – with confirmation that Radek Vitek has completed a loan move to Bristol City, as the club confirmed via their official website.
Bristol City wrote: “Radek Vítek has joined Bristol City on a season-long loan from Manchester United.
“The 21-year-old goalkeeper joins City for the 2025/26 Sky Bet Championship campaign with a January recall option.”
On signing for the Robins, Vítek said: “I’m really excited, for me the Championship is a new level.
“More games is a big positive for me and I can’t wait to get to know all the players and staff better.”
Technical Director Brian Tinnion added: “We’re really pleased to secure the services of Radek as we strengthen the goalkeeping department for the upcoming campaign.
“He’s extremely well regarded at Manchester United and is a player we’re looking forward to working with.”
The 21-year-old goalkeeper was left out of United’s pre-season tour squad, raising eyebrows among fans who had hoped to see him feature following Andre Onana’s recent hamstring setback.
Despite some calls for Radek Vitek to be given a shot at first-team action this summer, Amorim instead opted to rely on Altay Bayindir and veteran Tom Heaton during United’s pre-season fixtures.
The writing was on the wall when Vitek was spotted in the stands during Bristol City’s friendly against Plymouth Argyle last Saturday – and now the deal is done.
Vitek has officially signed for the Championship outfit on a season-long loan, in a move that’s seen as a crucial step in his development.
While there’s still uncertainty surrounding the long-term futures of Onana and Bayindir – and with Heaton’s contract set to expire next summer – Vitek’s pathway at United remains blocked.
Reports suggest the club is also exploring a deal for Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, in a move that could further push Vitek down the pecking order.
His exit could signal the beginning of the end of his United career.
However, with a strong season in the Championship, the Czech stopper could easily attract attention from top-flight clubs across Europe.
For now, Vitek has a new home – and a new challenge – in Bristol.
