Man United have announced academy director Nick Cox will be leaving the club to join Everton.
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Nick Cox.
Nick Cox is leaving Manchester United.(Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images.)
Manchester United have announced academy director Nick Cox is leaving the club to join Everton as their new technical director.
Cox is leaving Old Trafford after nine years worth of service, during which time he oversaw the rise and development of countless youngsters, including Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo.
He joined United in 2016 and then stepped up to lead their academy three years later. Everton headhunted Cox as part of their restructuring under the Friedkin Group, who completed their takeover of the club last December.
Angus Kinnear, formerly of Leeds United, was appointed the Toffees' new chief executive last month. Cox is one of four key appointments Everton have made, highlighting the scale of their off-field restructure.
On his departure, Cox said: "Youth development is an important part of the lifeblood of this club, having the responsibility of supporting this generation of young people and staff to ensure that the system continues to thrive has been an immense privilege.
"Working alongside some of the most talented and dedicated youth developers in the world has been a huge honour. There are countless individuals behind the scenes who play a vital role in supporting our young players to maximise their potential.
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"I will be forever grateful for their support and know they will ensure that the academy continues to go from strength to strength as the club enters an exciting new era."
United have confirmed Cox will remain at Old Trafford 'for the coming months' to oversee a smooth transition. He is very well respected in M16 and will leave the academy in excellent shape.
On Cox's departure, United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, said: "Nick has made a huge contribution to Manchester United over the past nine years.
"I was already well aware of his qualities before I arrived at the club and have really enjoyed working together.
"Identifying and developing the best youth talent remains one of this club's top priorities and we are grateful for the work Nick has done to provide such a strong foundation for us to continue to build on."
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