Liverpool hires new Under-18s coach Simon Wiles from Manchester United

Liverpool has appointed Simon Wiles as their new Under-18s head coach after attracting him from Manchester United.

Liverpool strengthens academy by hiring Simon Wiles from Manchester United

Liverpool FC has made a strategic move by hiring Simon Wiles as their new Under-18s head coach. This decision comes after Wiles left his role at Manchester United, where he worked as the Lead Academy coach for the Under-14 side. Liverpool was searching for a replacement for Marc Bridge-Wilkinson, who left his position last season and joined Huddersfield Town's first-team coaching staff. Wiles now begins his work alongside Under-21s head coach Rob Page, aiming to connect the academy with senior football. His prior experience includes coaching stints with Fleetwood Town and Blackpool, as well as a brief managerial role at Salford City. Liverpool's academy director, Alex Inglethorpe, praised Wiles for his diverse coaching background and expressed optimism about his ability to develop young talent.

The appointment of Simon Wiles signals Liverpool's commitment to strengthening their youth development system. By attracting a coach with experience from a club like Manchester United, Liverpool demonstrates its ambition to compete at every level. Wiles' familiarity with both youth and senior football, along with his adaptable coaching style, can help bridge the gap between various age groups. This move may create a more cohesive pathway for young players to break into the first team, and it reflects a growing trend among elite clubs to invest in their academies to secure long-term success.

Highlights

Liverpool aims to foster talent that can make the transition to elite first-team football.