Manchester United Confirm Darren Fletcher’s Role Following Michael Carrick Appointment

Manchester United have confirmed that Darren Fletcher will return to his position as Under-18s lead coach following the appointment of Michael Carrick as the club’s new head coach.

Fletcher stepped into caretaker management duties after the dismissal of Ruben Amorim last week, taking charge of two senior matches. United drew 2-2 away at Burnley in the Premier League before suffering a 2-1 home defeat to Brighton in the FA Cup third round on Sunday.

Although Fletcher was reportedly offered a role within Carrick’s senior coaching staff, it is understood that he declined the opportunity in order to continue his development with the club’s youth setup. Carrick was officially confirmed on Tuesday evening as United’s head coach until the end of the season, having beaten competition from fellow Old Trafford icon Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Fletcher has been Under-18s lead coach since last summer, having previously worked in several roles at the club, including Under-16s coach, first-team coach and technical director. Since retiring from a playing career that spanned 13 years at United, the former Scotland midfielder has remained a key figure behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

During his playing days, Fletcher made more than 340 appearances for the club after graduating from the academy, winning five Premier League titles and the Champions League alongside Carrick under Sir Alex Ferguson.

In an official statement announcing Carrick’s return, United expressed their appreciation to Fletcher for his contribution during a difficult transitional period. The club also confirmed that he would continue in his current role with the youth team.

“The club would like to place on record its gratitude to Darren Fletcher for his leadership during the last week,” the statement read.

“Fletcher will remain as lead coach of the Under-18s, playing a vital role in developing players ready to perform in a winning Manchester United first team.”

Fletcher’s twin teenage sons, Jack and Tyler, are currently part of the first-team squad at Old Trafford.

Carrick’s new coaching staff will include former England and Chelsea assistant Steve Holland, as well as ex-Middlesbrough first-team coach Jonathan Woodgate. Also joining the backroom team are former United defender Jonny Evans, Under-21s lead coach Travis Binnion, and goalkeeping coach Craig Mawson.