Jonny Evans is in advanced talks with Manchester United over a staff role following his release by the club earlier this month, according to The Athletic.
The 37-year-old called time on his playing career after making his last professional appearance when the Red Devils took on Hong Kong during their post-season Asia tour last month, but he is set to return as Man United’s loans manager.
An agreement is in place for Evans to look after loans of emerging talents, and he will help identify appropriate clubs at which to place young players and then monitor their progress, offering support where and when needed.
The former Northern Ireland international has the much-needed experience for the role having played in the Premier League and Championship during a career which spanned 19 seasons.
Evans spent two years in the Man United academy before turning professional in 2006, making 198 first-team appearances before leaving in 2015 and joining West Bromwich Albion.
He moved to Leicester City in 2018 before returning to the Old Trafford club in 2023, making 43 appearances during his second spell, and he regularly offered advice to younger players during his time in the dressing room.
Evans will be replacing Les Parry as Man United’s loans manager after he left the club last November to take a similar job at Saudi Arabian club NEOM SC.
The Red Devils boast talented players in their youth ranks, but most of them need to get first-team playing opportunities elsewhere to keep developing given the gulf between youth and senior football.
Evans has first-hand experience when it comes to playing elsewhere on loan before breaking into the Man United first-team having spent time with Royal Antwerp and Sunderland as a youngster before forcing his way into the plans of Sir Alex Ferguson, and it is safe to say he is perfect for his new role.
