Manchester United’s youth system continues to undergo transformation ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with several top prospects being fast-tracked through the ranks.
Ruben Amorim has placed a clear emphasis on integrating academy talent into the first team, evidenced by the club’s growing list of young players handed senior debuts last season.
There is also an increasing alignment between the Academy and first team, with pre-season tours and training sessions now involving more youth players than ever before.
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The club is currently preparing for the next intake of scholars, with a renewed focus on development, discipline, and identity—core values that remain central to United’s long-term philosophy.
Now, in a move that strengthens this vision, Manchester United have officially confirmed Darren Fletcher as the new Under-18s lead coach.
Manchester United announced via the clubs official website that the former United midfielder takes over with immediate effect and has already begun pre-season preparations with the youth squad, which included a training camp at adidas’ global headquarters in Germany and a friendly against Queens Park Rangers at Carrington.
Darren Fletcher, who made over 340 appearances for the club between 2003 and 2015, rejoined United in 2021 and has been working closely with both the first team and youth departments.
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“I am really excited to take on this new role and increase my responsibility to directly develop our young players,” Fletcher said following his appointment.
“I’m looking forward to working with such a talented age-group; supporting them to reach their potential and preparing them to enjoy careers at the highest level possible.”
Jason Wilcox added: “Darren knows exactly what it takes to be a successful Academy graduate and has played a key role in shaping the pathway for so many of our young players in recent years.”
“His excellent relationships across the entire staff will only increase the strong connection between the Academy and first team, further enhancing our ability to produce world-class players ready to excel at Manchester United.”
Fletcher also features in an upcoming Lifeblood short film, which captures a special moment at Old Trafford where the club’s newest scholars were officially welcomed with their traditional United suits.
