Rotherham officially appoint former Manchester United coach to historic role

Manchester United continue preparing for major changes behind the scenes following Ruben Amorim’s sacking back in January.

The Portuguese coach has now been heavily linked with a return to Benfica as manager ahead of next season.

A number of former United figures have also recently secured new opportunities away from Old Trafford.

At the end of last year, former Manchester United assistant coach Steve McClaren stepped down from his role as Jamaica manager.

This came after the national side failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

Now, another chapter has officially begun for the experienced coach.

As confirmed on Rotherham United’s official website, the League Two side have appointed a former United coach into a newly-created senior position at the club.

The experienced figure in question is Steve McClaren.

Rotherham announced McClaren as the club’s first-ever head of football following their relegation from League One this season.

The 65-year-old will take up the role with immediate effect.

He is expected to oversee major football decisions at the Yorkshire club, including the appointment of a new first-team manager after Lee Clark’s departure.

The former United assistant enjoyed huge success during his time under Sir Alex Ferguson at Old Trafford.

He was part of the club’s historic Treble-winning coaching setup in 1999.

Steve McClaren later moved into management and enjoyed spells with Middlesbrough, England, Wolfsburg, Twente, Derby County and Newcastle United across a lengthy career.

As already mentioned, his most recent role came with Jamaica.

However, his time there ended towards the end of 2025 after he failed to guide the national team to the upcoming World Cup.

Now, the former Manchester United coach is set for a very different challenge.

He will look to help rebuild Rotherham following relegation into League Two.

The appointment also marks the first time Rotherham have introduced a head of football role in the club’s history.