Alan Wright, former defender for Aston Villa, Leeds United, Nottingham Forest, and Cheltenham Town, will be part of Manchester United’s coaching setup for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Burnley on Wednesday evening (kick-off 8.15pm).
Following the recent dismissal of Ruben Amorim, Darren Fletcher has assumed the role of interim manager at Old Trafford. Amorim’s coaching staff have also departed, but Fletcher has assembled a trusted team to support him. Alongside Fletcher, retired defender Jonny Evans will assist, with Under-21s manager Travis Binnion and Alan Wright, who serves as the professional development phase coach, completing the backroom team.
Wright’s distinguished playing career began in the Premier League, notably with Aston Villa after moving from Blackburn Rovers in 1995. Standing at just 5ft 4in, one of the league’s shortest players, Wright’s tenacity and skill helped Villa secure the EFL Cup in 1996. His career also featured important spells at Middlesbrough, Sheffield United, and loan stints with clubs including Leeds United, Cardiff City, Doncaster Rovers, and Nottingham Forest.
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In the later stages of his playing days, Wright joined Cheltenham Town from 2007 to 2009, where he demonstrated his leadership and quality. During his time at Whaddon Road, he played a crucial role in helping Cheltenham secure League One survival with a dramatic final-day victory over Doncaster Rovers in May 2008. Wright scored a memorable goal in a 2-2 draw against Crewe Alexandra, highlighting his enduring influence on the pitch.
After leaving Cheltenham, Wright moved to burgeoning non-league side Fleetwood Town before transitioning to a coaching career. He has since managed Southport and spent over a decade coaching in Manchester City’s academy, where he oversaw the Under-16 team, further strengthening his credentials as a youth development specialist.
Now at Manchester United, Wright is expected to bring his wealth of experience both as a former Premier League player and a dedicated coach to the Red Devils’ first-team staff as they prepare to face Burnley.