New Manchester United boss carries proud Mayo roots

Former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed interim manager at Old Trafford following the sacking of head coach Ruben Amorim.

The club confirmed the decision earlier today, with Fletcher stepping into the role on a temporary basis after previously working within the club’s academy and senior football structures.

A familiar figure behind the scenes, he has held coaching and technical roles since bringing an end to his playing career.

Fletcher enjoyed a distinguished spell as a player with United, winning multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League, and is regarded as someone with a deep understanding of the club’s culture and expectations.

Notably, he has the closest links to Ireland of any Manchester United manager since former Ireland boss Frank O’Farrell led the club in the early 1970s.

His appointment will be warmly received in Mayo, where he has strong family ties to Achill Island.

Fletcher’s mother, Bridie, is from Dooagh, and the 41-year-old has been a frequent visitor to the west of Ireland over the years.

His affection for Mayo sport is well documented, having attended the 2013 All-Ireland football final between Mayo and Dublin while sidelined through injury, opting for Croke Park over the Manchester derby and proudly donning a Mayo jersey on the day.