Long-serving academy product Jack Stott has announced he is to depart Middlesbrough after 14 years at the club.
The 21-year-old midfielder has confirmed his exit after failing to break into Michael Carrick’s senior squad.
Stott brings an end to Boro journey spanning over a decade
Jack Stott has officially confirmed his departure from Middlesbrough, ending a 14-year association with the club he joined at just seven years old.
The young midfielder took to social media to break the news as his contract nears its expiration at the end of June. While Middlesbrough have not yet published their retained list, Stott’s announcement provides a first glimpse into the summer changes expected at the Riverside Stadium.
“After 14 years, unfortunately my time at my boyhood club has come to an end. I have enjoyed every second from the start at seven years old to now at 21,” Stott wrote. “I want to thank all my teammates, coaches and staff who have all played a vital part of my career so far. I wish you all the best in the future. Looking forward to the next step in my journey.”
Despite his longevity and leadership at youth level—having captained the U21s this season—Stott never made a competitive appearance for the senior side. His closest moment came in April 2023 when he was named on the bench during a defeat to Luton Town, though he remained unused.
Stott impressed during the club’s 2023/24 pre-season, featuring in four friendlies and earning praise for his composure in possession. However, that momentum failed to translate into competitive minutes. A loan to York City early in the campaign yielded only two appearances, while a later spell at Gateshead added a further eight.
The club has decided not to extend his contract, instead supporting the midfielder through its academy player care programme in finding a new opportunity. His final outing came in the North Riding Senior Cup final at the Riverside, where Boro’s U21 side lost to Scarborough Athletic.
Stott has been a consistent figure under Mark Tinkler in the youth setup and leaves with the club’s best wishes as he looks to continue his career elsewhere.
Writer’s View
Stott’s exit is a poignant reminder of the fine margins in professional football. Fourteen years of dedication didn’t yield a senior debut, yet his leadership and loyalty made him a valued figure at Middlesbrough’s academy. With the club entering a summer of reflection and renewal, his departure marks one of the first confirmed changes to the squad structure. For Stott, a fresh start could be exactly what’s needed to reignite a promising career that just never quite took off on Teesside.
