Location
Carrington Training Centre.
Role Overview
The Academy Individual Development Coach in the Young Player Academy is responsible for designing and delivering position‑specific and individualised development programmes to maximise the potential of academy players. The role focuses on accelerating player progression through tailored coaching, aligned with Manchester United’s playing philosophy and long‑term player pathway.
Key Responsibilities
- Individual Player Development
- Design, implement, and review Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for academy players
- Deliver high‑quality, position‑specific coaching sessions (technical, tactical, and cognitive)
- Provide regular, structured feedback to players to support learning and progression
- Track and monitor individual player development against defined benchmarks
- On‑Pitch Coaching Delivery
- Plan and deliver small‑group and individual training sessions aligned to team objectives
- Focus on key areas such as:
- Technical excellence (ball mastery, passing, finishing, etc.)
- Position‑specific tactical understanding
- Decision‑making and game intelligence
- Support team training sessions where required
- Player Reviews & Feedback
- Lead and contribute to multidisciplinary player review meetings
- Deliver engaging video and on‑pitch feedback sessions
- Build strong relationships with players to support both performance and personal development
- Collaboration Across Departments
- Work closely with:
- Academy age‑group coaches
- Performance analysts
- Sports science and medical teams
- Psychology and education staff
- Ensure a holistic approach to player development
- Work closely with:
- Matchday & Game Integration
- Observe matches to assess individual player performance
- Identify development opportunities and feed insights back into training plans
- Provide pre‑ and post‑match individual feedback where appropriate
- Curriculum & Methodology
- Contribute to the ongoing development of the academy coaching curriculum
- Ensure all coaching aligns with the club’s playing philosophy and game model
- Stay updated with best practices in elite youth development
The Person
- Essential
- UEFA B Licence (minimum) – UEFA A Licence desirable
- Proven experience coaching within an elite academy or professional environment
- Strong understanding of player development pathways (U9–U23)
- Excellent technical and tactical knowledge of the game
- Ability to design and deliver individualised coaching programmes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Desirable
- Experience working in a Premier League or Category 1 academy
- Knowledge of performance analysis tools and video feedback
- Understanding of sports science principles in youth development
- Experience in position‑specific coaching (e.g., attacking, defending, midfield roles)
- Personal Attributes
- Player‑centred approach with a passion for long‑term development
- Detail‑oriented and highly organised
- Innovative and proactive in coaching methods
- Strong relationship builder with players and staff
- Growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning
- Flexible and adaptable in a high‑performance environment
What We Offer
- Annual Incentive Scheme to reward your dedication and hard work
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
- Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme
- Simplyhealth Cash Plan: Supporting you with your everyday healthcare needs
- Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
- Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
- Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team‑building activities
- Enhanced family Leave Benefits and policies
- Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
- A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth
Our Commitment To You
We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity, and inclusion sit at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Safeguarding
Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks.
Immigration
It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK‑based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.
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