Manchester United have announced that Jonny Evans will stay at the club despite ending his playing career at the close of the 2024/25 season.
Evans was widely tipped to be joining the club staff in some capacity, but the club has now made that official in a new press release.
Evans’ new job title is “head of loans and pathways”, referring to the pathways for academy players through the ranks.
The Northern Irishman will soon complete his UEFA A coaching licence.
United confirmed on their club website that Evans “will lead on loans for United’s young players as well as work closely with director of football, Jason Wilcox, and the director of Academy to further enhance processes which maximise individual player development and prepare young talent to perform in the first team.”
The report also covered comments by the big man in which he confirmed his retirement from football.
“I want to officially announce my retirement from my playing career, not with sadness, but with pride, gratitude and excitement for the next chapter ahead,” he said.
“I’ll be forever indebted to the managers, coaches, staff and, of course, my team-mates, that I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my 20 years in professional football.
“My biggest and most heartfelt thanks must go to the fans who have supported me during every step of the journey. It’s been an honour to be on the pitch and feel your passion home and away; I will be eternally grateful for every ounce of support.
“I am looking forward to working with the next generation of talented players to support them to reach their potential. Having had experience of loans myself, I know the crucial role that they can play within a player’s development. I am excited to help further develop the pathway to our first team and continue the legacy of young players thriving at Manchester United.”
Evans could be joined in the academy by another popular former star Darren Fletcher, who is in line to manage the Under 18s next season following the departure of Adam Lawrence.
There has been some criticism in the past of “jobs for the boys” at United. Some argue that these roles should go to people who have proven themselves to be the best in class, whereas others argue that maintaining the culture and “DNA” of the club outweighs technical merit.
Director of football Jason Wilcox described Evans as being “the perfect role model for our young players.”
“Jonny’s knowledge of what it takes to succeed at Manchester United will be of great benefit to each of them as we continue to develop world-class talent capable of performing in our first team.”
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Red Billy
Red Billy is the managing editor of The Peoples Person, author of three books and totally obsessed with football’s transfer market. Billy still insists Matteo Darmian and Alex Telles could have made it at United given half a chance.
