Man United coach Darren Fletcher replaced quits role after five months | Football | Sport
Adam Lawrence, former academy coach at Manchester United, has left Newcastle in shock after stepping down as head coach of the Premier League club’s Under-21 squad. Lawrence took charge of the Magpies’ Under-21 team in September 2025, having moved to the North East from Manchester United, where he had been managing the Under-18s side.
His departure comes on the back of a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Middlesbrough on Friday night, the latest in a string of lacklustre performances from the squad. Newcastle confirmed Lawrence’s exit in an official statement. Academy director Steve Harper expressed his gratitude, saying: “I’d like to thank Adam for his time with us leading the Under-21 group. We wish him the best of luck as he pursues the next step in his coaching career.”
Lawrence initially joined Manchester United as the U16s lead coach, spending four years at the club before resigning from his role at the academy in May. He was promoted to the U18s two years into his tenure and was praised for achieving impressive results and nurturing talent that strengthened the first-team options.
During his stint in Manchester, Lawrence played a key role in the development of Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Amass. Upon his departure in May 2025, then academy manager Nick Cox lauded his contributions, stating: “Adam has contributed greatly to our club throughout his four years at Manchester United.
“His passion for helping young players to maximise their potential has played an important role in the success of our academy system.
“We take great pride in supporting and witnessing the development of our staff – Adam is a fine example of that – moving up from the Under-16s to the Under-18s, enjoying success and now being ready to seek a new challenge in the game.
“The whole of the academy thanks Adam for his service and wishes him the very best of luck for the future.”
Lawrence, in his farewell message, indicated readiness for a fresh challenge. However, after a rocky start with the Magpies, he has abruptly left the club.
In July, Fletcher, who has now assumed caretaker charge of United following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, was named as Lawrence’s replacement.
Jason Wilcox, director of football, expressed his excitement at welcoming the Premier League-winning former midfielder to help mould the promising talent within the United ranks.
Wilcox said: “We are delighted that Darren will lead our Under-18s group. He knows exactly what it takes to be a successful academy graduate and has played a key role in shaping the pathway for so many of our young players over recent years.
“Darren’s excellent relationships across the entire staff will increase the strong connection between the academy and first-team, further enhancing our ability to produce world-class players ready to excel at Manchester United.”
