Manchester United have sealed an Omar Berrada repeat by appointing a key member of staff to their academy department
Manchester United have brought in former Manchester City chief Darren Hughes as their new head of academy football development and methodology
Manchester United have brought in former Manchester City chief Darren Hughes as their new head of academy football development and methodology(Image: (Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images))
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Manchester United have named Darren Hughes as head of academy football development and methodology. Hughes arrives from Manchester City, where he dedicated 11 years across various positions.
United promoted the vacancy at the start of last month. The club characterised the position as "fundamental to the long-term vision of United in identifying and developing the best coaches and the best young players."
Hughes most recently served as the head of coaching in City's academy, a role in which he was responsible for overseeing coach development and the coaching philosophy. Hughes joins Omar Berrada in representing both City and United.
Hughes will report to Stephen Torpey, head of the academy. United sources have indicated Hughes was the standout candidate after a thorough recruitment process.
Prior to Hughes' advancement at City, he operated as Under-16 lead coach, Under-18 assistant and Under-11 lead. He joined City in summer 2014 following a seven-year spell with Liverpool.
Curtis Jones and Jarrell Quansah came through Liverpool's academy whilst Hughes was on Merseyside. Hughes contributed to the progression of Oscar Bobb, Romeo Lavia and Cole Palmer at City.
Torpey had previously collaborated with Hughes during his time at City. United brought in Torpey as head of the academy from Brentford in September, after Nick Cox's move to Everton.
Torpey arrived at City in 2014 and steadily progressed through their academy system to take charge of coaching across the Under-15 to Under-23 age brackets, a position in which he guided teams to silverware.
United have several starlets in their academy currently that Hughes will be hoping to help get into the first-team and join Kobbie Mainoo, who has started every game under Michael Carrick.
JJ Gabriel is considered to be the next big thing at Old Trafford with Kai Rooney, son of United legend Wayne, also in that bracket.
JJ Gabriel of Manchester United under-18s
JJ Gabriel is expected to have a bright future at Manchester United
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The two teenagers both shined in United's win over West Ham earlier this week to advance into the under-18s Premier League Cup final. Gabriel scored during the 90 minutes while Rooney netted in extra-time.
United are set to face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park for the trophy in late April with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Carrington for their semi-final triumph.
Carrick has also taken a strong interest in watching academy games since taking interim charge but was unable to watch this clash due to travel and preparations for the Premier League game against Newcastle United.
Despite having a man advantage for the entirety of the second half, Carrick saw his unbeaten streak end as Will Osula netted a superb winner in the latter stages.
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