Pre-Academy Coach (Casual)

Location: Carrington Training Complex

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals. We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Role

We are looking for a passionate and committed Pre-Academy Coach to join our Academy team at Carrington Training Complex. In this role, you will help deliver a high-quality Pre-Academy programme for players aged U6–U8, supporting the identification, recruitment, retention and development of talented young players as they progress into the Academy pathway. Working within Manchester United's coaching philosophy and long-term player development model, you will create engaging learning experiences that inspire young players while maintaining the highest coaching standards.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Planning and delivering high-quality coaching sessions aligned with Manchester United's Academy playing and coaching philosophy.
• Delivering coaching in line with the Academy curriculum to ensure consistency in player development.
• Supporting programmes that develop players while assisting the scouting team in identifying and retaining talent.
• Supporting supplementary events beyond regular coaching sessions, including matchday experiences and multi-sport activities.
• Facilitating successful transitions for players progressing from the Pre-Academy into the Foundation Phase.
• Contributing to coaching meetings and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Representing Manchester United's values and standards in every interaction, both on and off the pitch.

The Person:

We're looking for someone who is passionate about developing young players and committed to creating positive, engaging learning environments for children.

You Will Have

• UEFA C Licence.
• FA Youth Award (or equivalent).
• Experience coaching children aged 6–8 years.
• A strong understanding of child development and age-appropriate coaching principles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, particularly when working with young players and parents.
• Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment.
• Enhanced DBS clearance and up-to-date safeguarding training (or willingness to obtain where applicable).

You'll also bring:

• A passion for long-term player development.
• A commitment to continuous learning and reflective coaching practice.
• Professionalism, reliability and a collaborative approach.
• Emotional intelligence and empathy when working with young athletes.

Desirable Experience Includes

• FA Advanced Youth Award (Foundation Development Phase specific).
• UEFA B Licence (or working towards).
• Experience within a Category 1 Academy environment.
• Knowledge of the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) and player development frameworks.
• An understanding of Manchester United's Academy philosophy and heritage.

Our Values Badge – Earn the badge, every day. Respect our history and heritage. Be best in class and deliver to the standards expected of Manchester United. No one is bigger than the club. Bravery – Be bold, be brave, and take calculated risks. Do things differently and innovate. Lead by example and do what’s right for the club, even when it’s hard. Spirit – Embody the spirit of Manchester United. Show strength of character, act with passion, and fight back, no matter what.

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.

Ready to Join Us?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, please submit your application by Tuesday 21st July. 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. If you need any adjustments to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, please contact us, and we will be happy to discuss them with you. 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.