Former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed as the new lead coach of the club's Under-18s team, and I've got to say, I'm not too thrilled about it, mate.
From player to coach
Fletcher had a decent playing career at United, making 342 appearances and winning five Premier League titles. But that doesn't mean he's going to be a good coach, does it? I've seen plenty of former players try their hand at coaching, and most of them are bloody useless.
Previous roles at the club
After ending his playing career at Stoke City in 2019, Fletcher returned to United as an U16s coach before being promoted to the first-team. He then became the club's technical director, a role he held for three years until some mug named Jason Wilcox took over in 2024.
Fletcher's thoughts on his new role
Fletcher seems to be excited about his new role, saying he's looking forward to working with the talented age-group and preparing them for careers at the highest level possible. But I don't buy it, mate. He's probably just happy to have a job at his former club.
Wilcox's comments
Wilcox, the bloke who took over Fletcher's old job, is "delighted" that he will lead the Under-18s group. He reckons Fletcher's relationships across the staff will increase the connection between the Academy and the first team. But I don't see how that's going to make a difference. The lad's still got a lot to prove as a coach.
Fletcher's playing career
Fletcher joined the United academy at 11 and signed for them at 15, despite interest from Newcastle United. Sir Alex Ferguson gave him his senior debut in 2003, and he went on to win numerous trophies with the club. But let's be real, mate, he was never a world-class player. He was just a solid midfielder who happened to play for a great team.
So, while some people might be excited about Fletcher's appointment, I'm not convinced. He's got a lot to prove as a coach, and I won't be surprised if he fails miserably. But hey, at least he'll always have his playing career to fall back on, right?
