It has not taken Adam Lawrence long to find a new job after departing Manchester United this summer.
Before Ruben Amorim began preparing Manchester United’s first team for the 2025/26 season, it was announced that U21s coach Adam Lawrence would leave the club.
After joining United from the Charlton Athletic academy in 2021, Lawrence spent four-and-a-half successful years at Old Trafford. He felt the time was right for a fresh challenge.
On top of Lawrence’s departure, United have seen major changes to the development ranks. U21 assistant coach David Hughes is becoming Newport County boss this summer, while Paul McShane followed Lee Grant to Huddersfield Town.
Perhaps the biggest loss to United is the academy director, Nick Cox is leaving to join Everton as technical director. Stephen Torpey has since been appointed as Cox’s replacement following a spell at Brentford.
Adam Lawrence, former Man Utd U18s head coach
Photo by Manchester United/Manchester United via Getty Images
Adam Lawrence becomes Newcastle U21 coach
Just months after leaving United to face new challenges, Lawrence has accepted a role at Newcastle.
The 38-year-old will become Newcastle’s U21 lead coach after previously managing United at U18 level.
During Lawrence’s time at United, his U18s won three pieces of silverware in the 2023/24 campaign, winning the Premier League regional and national titles as well as the Premier League Cup.
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United U18s won the Premier League North last term, while missing out on reaching the FA Youth Cup after losing to Aston Villa in the semi-finals on penalties.
Speaking about his new role at Newcastle, Lawrence told club media: “It’s a real privilege to join Newcastle United and to lead the Under-21s squad at such an exciting time for the Academy.
“I’ve always believed in creating environments where young players can grow – not just as footballers, but as people – and that is something the Academy does very well.
“The club has a clear vision for development, and I’m looking forward to working with the staff and players to help each individual take the next step in their journey.”
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Adam Lawrence as our new U21 Lead Coach 🤝
He will officially join on September 1, following his departure from Manchester United where he was U18 Lead Coach.
Welcome to Newcastle United, Adam! ⚫️⚪️
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) August 27, 2025
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Who replaced Lawrence at Man Utd?
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher was confirmed as the new lead coach of the U18s earlier this summer.
The Scotland international returned to United in 2021, having previously spent 20 years at the club as a player, making over 340 appearances for the first team.
Speaking about his appointment earlier this summer, Fletcher told club media: “I am really excited to take on this new role and increase my responsibility to directly develop our young players.
“I’m looking forward to working with such a talented age-group; supporting them to reach their potential and preparing them to enjoy careers at the highest level possible.”
United’s U18s have started the season brightly under Fletcher.