Former Manchester United striker suffers heartbreak after scoring first goal in 10-months
The young striker left Man Utd permanently in the winter transfer window.
Former Manchester United striker Joe Hugill suffered a heartbreaking end after he netted his first professional goal in 10 months over the weekend.
The 22-year-old left United permanently in the winter window when he joined Scottish side Kilmarnock on an initial 18-month contract. Hugill joined United from Sunderland in 2020 and was part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup two years later, alongside the likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho.
Hugill impressed for United across the various youth levels but struggled to make a professional breakthrough during loans with Altrincham, Burton Albion, Wigan, Carlisle and Barnet. The young striker was recalled from a season-long loan with Barnet last month before he made the move to Scotland. The youngster has made a positive impact for Kilmarnock and netted his first goal for the club in an agonising defeat on Sunday afternoon.
Hugill heartbreak after breaking goal drought
Joe Hugill caught the eye as Kilmarnock suffered a dramatic 3-2 home defeat to Celtic in the Scottish Premiership over the weekend.
The former Manchester United striker grabbed both a goal and an assist to put the home side 2-0 up in the match, before Celtic struck three times in the second half to grab a memorable three points. Julian Araujo netted a 97th-minute winner for the away side, which left Hugill with little to show after an impressive individual display.
🎙️ “A huge moment for Kilmarnock!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) February 15, 2026
Joe Hugill scores his first goal for the home side and doubles their lead over Celtic! ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/xtnyMH2yQq
Hugill made his first start for Kilmarnock in the match after he had made three previous substitute appearances for his new club side. His goal against Celtic means he has now scored against both of the Old Firm during his professional career, after he scored against Rangers for United during pre-season back in 2024.
Taking to social media when his moved to Kilmarnock was made official, the young striker thanked United for all the help they had given him in his career. "Thank you to everyone at Manchester United for the past 6 years. The players, the staff, the fans and everyone connected to the club who have made me love every minute along the way. I will always be beyond grateful for my time here and the memories will live with me forever."
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