By NATHAN SALT - FOOTBALL REPORTER and TARA ANSON-WALSH, FOOTBALL REPORTER
Published: 12:48 EST, 8 December 2025 | Updated: 12:49 EST, 8 December 2025
Jonny Evans has stepped down from his role as head of loans and pathways at Manchester United, a position he has held for the past six months.
Evans, 37, took up the post in June after announcing his retirement as a player, having made 241 appearances across two spells at his boyhood club.
The former Northern Ireland defender is understood to want a break and to spend time with his family before considering his next career move - a decision that has not surprised staff, many of whom felt this parting of ways was always likely.
Speaking when he accepted the role in June, Evans said: ‘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.’
Jonny Evans has stepped down from his role as head of loans and pathways at Man United
Evans, 37, took up the post in June after announcing his retirement as a player, having made 241 appearances across two spells at United - including making a shock return in 2023
Evans played a significant role in facilitating Toby Collyer’s move to West Bromwich Albion, a club he previously represented during his playing career, and is understood to have taken a close interest in the large group of youngsters sent out on loan this season.
As a player, Evans departed Old Trafford in 2015 and made an unexpected return eight years later following Leicester City's relegation.
He captained the Foxes for the final year of his five-year spell, as well as playing a crucial role in their 2021 FA Cup triumph.
He rejoined United on a one-year contract in 2023 during Erik ten Hag's tenure. Evans lifted the FA Cup again, this time with the Reds later that season, before agreeing to stay on for another term.
Across his international career from 2006 to 2024, he made 107 appearances for Northern Ireland, scored six goals, and wore the captain’s armband on 15 occasions.
He debuted for Northern Ireland at 18 in a memorable 3-2 victory over Spain in Belfast in September 2006, and his final international outing also came against Spain - a 5-1 friendly defeat in Mallorca in June 2024.
Two months after that match, he confirmed his retirement from international duty.
Evans also featured in Michael O’Neill’s squad for the Euro 2016 finals in France.