Jonny Evans has officially confirmed his retirement from professional football and has been appointed as head of loans and pathways at Manchester United
13:45, 30 Jun 2025
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Jonny Evans of Manchester United applauds the fans after the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Aston Villa FC at Old Trafford on May 25, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Zohaib Alam - MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Jonny Evans has taken up a new role at Manchester United(Image: Zohaib Alam - MUFC, Manchester United via Getty Images)
Jonny Evans has made the seamless transition from pitch to office as he's been named Manchester United's new head of loans and pathways upon his retirement.
The veteran defender wrapped up a two-decade-long playing career following the end of his contract at Old Trafford, opting to step into a new role within the club. At 37, Evans will spearhead the loan strategies of the club, taking the responsibility of working alongside young talent and ensuring their development is in line with first-team ambitions.
Working closely with Director of Football Jason Wilcox, Evans will apply his wealth of experience to help United's academy players prepare for future first-team action.
Embracing his new chapter, Evans said in a heartfelt announcement: "I want to officially announce my retirement from my playing career, not with sadness, but with pride, gratitude and excitement for the next chapter ahead.
"I'll be forever indebted to the managers, coaches, staff and, of course, my team-mates, that I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my 20 years in professional football.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Jonny Evans of Manchester United applauds the fans at the end of the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Aston Villa FC at Old Trafford on May 25, 2025 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Evans has retired at the age of 37 after an illustrious career(Image: Ash Donelon, Manchester United via Getty Images)
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"My biggest and most heartfelt thanks must go to the fans who have supported me during every step of the journey. It's been an honour to be on the pitch and feel your passion home and away; I will be eternally grateful for every ounce of support.
"I am looking forward to working with the next generation of talented players to support them to reach their potential. Having had experience of loans myself, I know the crucial role that they can play within a player's development.
"I am excited to help further develop the pathway to our first team and continue the legacy of young players thriving at Manchester United."
On Evans' appointment, Wilcox stated: "Having just finished his exceptional playing career, Jonny is the perfect role model for our young players.
"Jonny's knowledge of what it takes to succeed at Manchester United will be of great benefit to each of them as we continue to develop world-class talent capable of performing in our first team."
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Evans brings the curtains down on an illustrious playing career that spanned over two stints at United, racking up 241 appearances for the Reds and winning the Champions League, three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, and two League Cups.
He also earned 107 caps for Northern Ireland and was awarded an MBE in 2023 for his services to football.