Darren Fletcher takes on new role at Manchester United

Darren Fletcher had a decorated football career, becoming a cult hero at Manchester United, making 342 appearances for the club across 13 seasons.

During this time, he won five Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one League Cup and an appearance in the 2009/10 PFA Team of the Season.

Some of his individual highlights include a double in the Manchester Derby, scoring against AC Milan in the Champions League and most notably, his absence in their Champions League final defeat was seen as a contributing factor in losing to Barcelona.

Fletcher was never the best in the world in his position, but was known for his work rate and ability to put the team before individual gains. Wayne Rooney called him “vital” to their success under Sir Alex Ferguson, and he has been compared to the likes of Bobby Charlton, Steven Gerrard and Terry Butcher. Since leaving United in 2015, he went on to play for West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City before officially retiring in 2020.

Fletcher referred to a desire to coach back in 2019 and was appointed United’s Under-16 coach in October 2020. In July 2025, he was appointed head coach of the Under-18’s team.

Fletcher has been recently spotted on the touchline for United’s Under 21 side as The Daily Mail has reported that Alan Wright, the usual assistant for Travis Binnion, has been given some time away as he deals with a personal issue.

Typical of his time as a United player, Fletcher has had no problem stepping in and helping out the team. It was also a great moment for Fletcher personally, coaching sons Tyler and Jack.

Whilst the latter did not play in the Friday night game after his recent red card, he is expected to return to their Tuesday encounter with Notts County.