Manchester United
Individual Development Coach
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Location: Carrington Training Centre
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
The Academy Individual Development Coach is responsible for designing and delivering position-specific and individualised development programmes to maximise the potential of academy players. This role focuses on accelerating player progression through tailored coaching, aligned with the club’s playing philosophy and long-term player pathway.
Key Responsibilities
Individual Player Development
- Design, implement, and review Individual Development Plans (IDPs) for academy players
- Deliver high-quality, position-specific coaching sessions (technical, tactical, and cognitive)
- Provide regular, structured feedback to players to support learning and progression
- Track and monitor individual player development against defined benchmarks
On-Pitch Coaching Delivery
- Plan and deliver small-group and individual training sessions aligned to team objectives
- Focus on key areas such as:
- Technical excellence (ball mastery, passing, finishing, etc.)
- Position-specific tactical understanding
- Decision-making and game intelligence
- Support team training sessions where required
Player Reviews & Feedback
- Lead and contribute to multidisciplinary player review meetings
- Deliver engaging video and on-pitch feedback sessions
- Build strong relationships with players to support both performance and personal development
Collaboration Across Departments
- Work closely with:
- Academy age-group coaches
- Performance analysts
- Sports science and medical teams
- Psychology and education staff
- Ensure a holistic approach to player development
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Matchday & Game Integration
- Observe matches to assess individual player performance
- Identify development opportunities and feed insights back into training plans
- Provide pre- and post-match individual feedback where appropriate
Curriculum & Methodology
- Contribute to the ongoing development of the academy coaching curriculum
- Ensure all coaching aligns with the club’s playing philosophy and game model
- Stay updated with best practices in elite youth development
The Person
Essential
- UEFA B Licence (minimum) – UEFA A Licence desirable
- Proven experience coaching within an elite academy or professional environment
- Strong understanding of player development pathways (U9–U23)
- Excellent technical and tactical knowledge of the game
- Ability to design and deliver individualised coaching programmes
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Desirable
- Experience working in a Premier League or Category 1 academy
- Knowledge of performance analysis tools and video feedback
- Understanding of sports science principles in youth development
- Experience in position-specific coaching (e.g., attacking, defending, midfield roles)
Personal Attributes
- Player-centred approach with a passion for long-term development
- Detail-oriented and highly organised
- Innovative and proactive in coaching methods
- Strong relationship builder with players and staff
- Growth mindset and commitment to continuous learning
- Flexible and adaptable in a high-performance environment
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.
What We Offer
At Manchester United, we recognise that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we offer a range of rewards designed to support your professional and personal well-being:
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- Annual Incentive Scheme to reward your dedication and hard work
- 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
- Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme
- Simplyhealth Cash Plan: Supporting you with your everyday healthcare needs
- Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+ Workplace
- Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
- Gym Facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
- Enhanced family Leave Benefits and policies
- Enhanced Career Development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
- A Supportive Work Environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth
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 Saturday 25th 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.
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