Nicky Butt.

Butt to leave United for new challenge

Wednesday 24 March 2021 16:30

Nicky Butt is to step down as head of first-team development at Manchester United after nine years in coaching and player development roles at the heart of our renowned Academy.

He leaves the club with the warmest best wishes of everyone at Manchester United and our thanks for his important contribution to nurturing a succession of homegrown players who have made it to the first team during his time at the Aon Training Complex. He has also played a key role in bringing in a new generation of talented staff and leaders to take the Academy forwards.

Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, Axel Tuanzebe, Dean Henderson and Mason Greenwood are among those that Nicky has worked closely with during a period when our Academy has renewed its reputation as one of the most productive in world football.
Nicky Butt in the dug-out at Old Trafford during the recent win over Newcastle United.

“Having come through the Academy myself to play almost 400 games for Manchester United, it has been an absolute privilege to come back and work with a new generation of talent making that same journey,” said Nicky.

“I’m proud of the role everyone on the staff plays in giving our young footballers the best possible chance of fulfilling their potential, and the results are clear to see in the increased number of homegrown players reaching the first team.

“I already know from my playing days how difficult it is to leave Manchester United, but it feels like the right moment for a new professional challenge and I look forward to exploring opportunities that build on the great experiences I’ve had here over the past nine years.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, first-team manager, said: “Nicky will always be a legend of Manchester United as a six-time Premier League winner and, of course, an integral part of our Treble-winning team. That pedigree has made him a great source of guidance and inspiration to our Academy players since he returned to the club.

“We are all going to miss him around the Aon Training Complex but Nicky knows he will always be welcome back.”

Nicky Butt working with former team-mate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at the Aon Training Complex.

Head of Academy Nick Cox said: “It has been a privilege to work with Nicky over the past five years. He has been central to the work that has been done to strengthen the Academy in recent seasons and his unique perspective as a former Academy graduate has been a constant reminder to us all to remain committed to the club’s incredible history whilst constantly striving to innovate and improve.

“While we are sorry to see him go, Nicky’s legacy will continue in the many young players that remain in our programme that he has helped to identify, inspire and develop. It is this that will ensure that the pathway from Academy to First team continues for many years to come.”

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