Manchester United’s pre-season continues to be packed with changes on and off the pitch, and fans are keeping a close eye on how new appointments will affect the club’s future.
Ruben Amorim is expected to field more academy talent in the upcoming tour of the United States.
The club has already sealed exciting youth signings including Enzo Kana-Biyik and Diego Leon, and soon to be highly rated 16-year-old prospects such as Harley Emsden-James from Southampton and Seth Ridgeon from Norwich City.
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All signs point toward a clear strategic investment in the youth development pipeline – and the latest announcement signals just how seriously United are taking that goal.
Bruno Fernandes has now publicly backed the club’s decision to appoint Darren Fletcher as the new lead coach for Manchester United’s Under-18s.
This follows the departure of Adam Lawrence, who guided the youth side to three trophies in the 2023/24 season and left a strong legacy behind.
Fletcher, a product of United’s own Academy and former midfield regular under Sir Alex Ferguson, has worked in various roles at the club since retiring, including as technical director and first-team coach.
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Now, he steps into a more hands-on development role, with hopes of continuing the rich tradition of bringing youth through the ranks at Old Trafford.
A video of Fletcher speaking to the U18 squad was shared on United’s social platforms this week, and club captain Bruno Fernandes responded on Instagram: “Top class as a person and a well deserved new role that suits him and will bring loads of success to the youth of the club.”
The Scotsman will work with rising stars such as JJ Gabriel, while also welcoming new arrivals like Diego Leon, who is set to begin with the Under-21s.
Kana-Biyik has already been loaned to Lausanne-Sport to gain experience, while further reinforcements are being targeted.
Fletcher’s passion for youth development, mixed with first-hand Premier League experience, makes him a perfect mentor for United’s next generation.
United’s clear backing of Fletcher signals a return to the club’s roots: developing talent from within.
