Jacob Devaney: Ambitious Midfielder Eyes Titles with Hibernian

Jacob Devaney has made it clear he has not come to Hibernian just to develop quietly in the background. The Manchester United midfielder wants medals.

The 19-year-old has joined Hibs on loan from Old Trafford, with the Easter Road club securing an option to make the move permanent. After a promising spell at St Mirren last season, he is back in Scotland with a sharper focus and a bigger target.

“I’m really excited to be here,” he told HibsTV. “I’ve been in training the past two days and I’ve really enjoyed it – the feel of the club and the training ground.”

Drawn by Hibs’ size – and Europe

Devaney’s decision was not a leap into the unknown. He faced Hibs last season, felt the atmosphere, and that experience stuck.

“The size of the club [was what attracted me],” he said. “Playing here last season played a big part in me coming here and European competition as well – hopefully we qualify on Thursday night.”

That European carrot matters. Hibs are pushing to secure continental football, and Devaney wants to be at the heart of it.

“I know the expectation of Hibs, of the fans. I want to push for titles, whether that’s the league or cups, and obviously getting to Europe as well.”

This is not the language of a teenager happy just to clock up minutes. It is the language of someone who expects pressure and wants to lean into it.

A leader at 19

For David Gray, the appeal is obvious: a young midfielder schooled at Manchester United, confident on the ball and unafraid of responsibility.

“It was definitely the right decision for me to come up to Scotland,” Devaney said. “I suit the style of play and I see Hibs being the next step in my journey.”

He talks about his game with conviction, not caution.

“I can dominate the ball and hopefully get us playing. I see myself as a bit of a leader so I’d like to think I can bring that side of my game to Hibs as well.”

Hibs have secured a player who wants to dictate games, not drift through them. If his ambition matches his influence on the pitch, this loan could quickly turn into something far more permanent – and far more significant – for both player and club.