Everton officially appoint former Manchester United coach

Manchester United’s academy has long been recognised as one of the strongest development systems in the country, producing not only players but also coaches.

As clubs continue to reshape their structures, familiar faces from Carrington remain in demand.

One former United academy figure has now landed another key role in the Premier League.

Everton have confirmed a series of changes to their Academy leadership ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Former Manchester United coach joins Everton

Former Manchester United coach David Hughes has returned to a prominent academy position.

The Toffees announced, via their website, David Hughes as their new Head of Academy Player Development, with the former United Under-21 boss also taking charge of Everton’s Under-21 side as part of his wider responsibilities.

The appointment forms part of a major overhaul led by Technical Director Nick Cox, who left Manchester United in June 2025 to take up his role at Goodison Park.

Having previously worked closely together at Old Trafford, Cox has once again turned to a familiar face as he continues rebuilding Everton’s academy structure.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Cox explained the reasoning behind the changes.

He said, “We’ve spent the last six months conducting a strategic review of our Academy structure and these changes and appointments are part of that process.”

Hughes spent three years managing Manchester United’s Under-21 side between 2022 and 2025, overseeing the development of several promising players before departing Old Trafford.

Following his exit, the experienced coach moved into senior management with Newport County.

However, that spell lasted less than a year after he was dismissed in November last year.

Now, Hughes has been handed another opportunity to work in player development, with Everton believing his experience at Manchester United can help shape the next generation at Finch Farm.