Manchester United Coach Faces Uncertain Future Amid Potential Shake-up
A significant development is emerging at Manchester United’s academy, where Under-18 manager Adam Lawrence’s future has become uncertain. According to sources, Lawrence could be on the verge of leaving his position, with the Manchester Evening News understanding that his departure is being considered.
The news comes as a surprise, given Lawrence’s success with the U18 team, having overseen a treble last season, including two trophies won at the expense of rivals Manchester City. Lawrence, 39, was appointed as Under-16 coach in January 2021 before being promoted to head of player development for the Under-13 to U16 age groups. He took over as U18 boss in the summer of 2023.
As reported by the Manchester Evening News, Lawrence’s potential departure is not related to the club-wide redundancies. Instead, sources close to the matter have revealed that he is looking for a new challenge and may leave the club. However, it is understood that Lawrence has not made a final decision and could still stay in Manchester.
The Manchester Evening News has learned that Lawrence’s departure, if it happens, would be a significant shake-up to the academy. The U18 team has had a successful season, finishing second in the Premier League North with one game remaining. However, they were knocked out of the FA Youth Cup semi-finals by Aston Villa at Villa Park on penalties in March.
The Villa defeat proved costly, as they went on to win the competition against Manchester City. Despite this setback, Lawrence had targeted winning the prestigious FA Youth Cup in this campaign. The Manchester Evening News understands that Lawrence’s future is uncertain, and he may leave United after spending four years working in the academy, having joined from Charlton.
In a statement, a source close to the matter told the Manchester Evening News, "Lawrence has not made a final decision and could stay in Manchester, but there has been an admission that he is looking for a new challenge and is more likely to leave the club." The Manchester Evening News will continue to provide updates on this developing story.
For more Manchester United news and analysis, join our free WhatsApp group or subscribe to our newsletter service. You can also listen to our expert analysis on the Manchester is Red podcast, featuring The Samuel Luckhurst Show and The Midweek Debate, available on all podcast platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
At the Manchester Evening News, we’re dedicated to bringing you the best Manchester United coverage and analysis. Make sure you don’t miss out on the latest United news by joining our free WhatsApp group. You can get all the breaking news and best analysis sent straight to your phone by clicking here to subscribe. You can also subscribe to our free newsletter service. Click here to be sent all the day’s biggest stories.
The Manchester Evening News understands that any potential departure for Lawrence would be a significant loss to the academy, given his experience and success with the U18 team. As the situation continues to unfold, fans will be eagerly awaiting an official announcement from Manchester United.
Original reporting by the Manchester Evening News can be found here: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/manchester-united-coach-could-make-31577012.
