Darren Fletcher's new Man Utd role means two youngsters will take next step, their breakout is close

Manchester United have added a strong dose of tradition and legacy to the club this summer with new roles for Jonny Evans and Darren Fletcher.

While Jonny Evans joins as the loan manager, a role held by Les Parry until November last year, Darren Fletcher becomes the Man Utd U18 head coach.

Evans will have a lot on his plate to place so many exciting youngsters at perfect clubs, while Darren Fletcher has already received his first assignment.

Fletcher’s appointment is also exciting news for two youngsters, because it means they will take the next step now.

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Darren Fletcher was ‘reluctant’ to take Man Utd role earlier

Fletcher has taken up numerous roles at Man Utd so far, starting from being the coach of the U16s to becoming the technical director.

Under Ineos, he was the first-team coach and also acted as a conduit between the first team and the academy for breakout players.

As per the Manchester Evening News, however, he was ‘reluctant’ to take the U18 head coach role in the past because of two players.

His twin sons, Jack and Tyler, have been a part of the U18s outfit for a while now, and both have shown the ability to play for the first team one day.

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Fletcher, as professional as he is, was reluctant to take the head coach role due to a potential conflict of interest, which is why it’s interesting to see him do it now.

The report states that Fletcher is now convinced that his sons have ‘progressed as players’ after a breakout 2024/25, which means good news for Man Utd.

Jack and Tyler Fletcher inching closer to breakout

If Fletcher was reluctant because of his sons in the U18s team, but now believes they have progressed, it sends a clear message.

Neither will be a full-time member of the U18s squad next season, either earning a promotion to the U21s outfit or seeking a loan for their first taste of senior football.

Tyler Fletcher impressed on the post-season tour, while Jack Fletcher has transformed himself into a goalscoring midfielder.

They both showed last season that they have outgrown the U18s level, so Man Utd fans who follow academy football closely were interested in knowing what’s next for them.

Their father’s appointment as the head coach of the U18s side effectively confirms that they have earned themselves a promotion to the next step in academy football.

The upcoming pre-season could be crucial for the pair, as their breakout feels closer than ever.

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