Neil Reynolds takes up the reins full-time

FC United of Manchester has named Neil Reynolds as the club’s first Head of Football and Academy Principal. the appointment, made as part of a new senior management structure at the club, means Neil will work full-time for FC United on a three-year contract. His current role as first team manager is also extended for the same timescale. Consequently Neil is leaving his job as Head Teacher of South Shore Academy in Blackpool and will formally begin his full-time role at FC United on Wednesday, 1^st September.

FC United board chair Adrian Seddon said: “Naturally we are thrilled Neil has accepted our offer to take on these new responsibilities. Neil had an instant affinity with our club and the supporters and has developed a strong squad with a fantastic team spirit. Thanks to the hard work of numerous club staff and volunteers, the club is stable and has a secure financial platform from which we can start making bigger plans for the future. Members will be aware that we are developing a new vision for the club, together with an action plan that will deliver the vision. By appointing Neil into our new senior management structure, we have someone at the heart of the club not only with the experience to lead football on the pitch, but off it too.

Neil is an experienced senior teacher who will help develop our Academy working with schools and young people across Manchester. He will further strengthen our education programme by inspiring and encouraging children into sport and help them make the most of the opportunities this offers – and he will unearth local talent to bring through our Academy.

This is a real signal of intent for both Neil and FC United.”

Neil Reynolds said: “I knew as soon as I walked through the door at FC United that this is a special club. I’ve always wanted to move into football full time, so to do that at FC United really is a dream come true. The club means so much to me now so I’m very excited to help get the club where it needs to be, competing at the next level. I’m effectively taking on three different roles so it’s a challenge and I know expectations of me will be high – but trust me, no-one puts more pressure on me than me! As part of the Academy Principal remit I will be focusing on education, and obviously I’m delighted to bring my skills and experience as a head teacher to this important community work. I will be going into schools across Manchester to talk about FC United and opportunities in sport, as well as spending time with the Academy students at Broadhurst Park."

It’s an amazing opportunity and I would like to say thank you to everyone at the club for supporting me. Many people have worked hard behind the scenes on this and I will be forever grateful – I will repay your faith and loyalty.”

South Shore Academy announced Neil’s departure to pupils’ parents via email yesterday at the same time that FC United is shared the news with members on the official Members Forum. 

We plan to give members more information in the coming days and weeks including a Zoom session for members to hear direct from Neil about his plans and ask him any questions. Keep your eyes peeled for updates!

Congratulations Neil - more exciting times for FC United so if you haven't got a season ticket then there's still a few weeks before the season kicks off - click here to get yours