Manchester United have confirmed the appointment of club legend Darren Fletcher as the new lead coach of their Under-18 teahe Red Devils announced the news on Monday, highlighting Fletcher’s deep ties with the club both as a player and as a backroom staff member since his return in 2021.

Fletcher, 41, enjoyed a glittering playing career at Old Trafford, making over 340 appearances and collecting an impressive haul of trophies, including five Premier League titles, an FA Cup, two League Cups, the UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Speaking on his new role, Fletcher expressed his enthusiasm about shaping the next generation of stars.

“I’m really excited to take on this new role and increase my responsibility to directly develop our young players,” he told the club’s website. “I am looking forward to working with such a talented age-group.”

Fletcher has already started work immediately, overseeing pre-season training for the U-18 squad as they prepare for the upcoming campaign.

Fans and analysts alike see his appointment as a strong move by United, tapping into the experience and passion of a club legend to nurture the academy talents who could become the next big names at Old Trafford.