Manchester United Turn Down Former Youth Player in Coaching Role
Manchester United have been linked with former youth player Michael Appleton, who spent two years playing for the club in the 90s, but ultimately turned down an offer to join the coaching staff. The 48-year-old Appleton has a wealth of experience in the game, having managed several clubs in the EFL, but it appears he has opted to continue his coaching career elsewhere.
According to a report in the Daily Mail, United had offered Appleton a role as the loans manager, overseeing the club’s young players as they went out on loan to gain experience. However, the former striker has decided against taking up the position, reportedly due to his desire to focus on coaching rather than an administrative role.
Appleton’s decision not to join United is not surprising, given his relatively short tenure as manager at Charlton Athletic, where he was sacked just four months into his contract in January. The 48-year-old has also previously managed Portsmouth, Preston, Blackpool, Blackburn, Oxford and Lincoln, and may feel that he has more to offer in a coaching role.
United’s pursuit of Appleton is part of a wider trend of bringing former players back to the club in coaching roles. Earlier this month, former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy was appointed as an assistant manager, with a focus on helping young players develop. The addition of Appleton would have added another layer of depth to the coaching staff, but it seems that it’s not to be.
The pursuit of Appleton is a reminder of United’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and giving back to the community. Despite their struggles on the pitch, the club remains dedicated to producing talented young players who can go on to succeed in the game. Whether Appleton will reappear in management or coaching in the future remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure – United will continue to scout and develop talent from across the globe.
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