Man City appoint new role after making bold new academy target

Manchester City have appointed Darren Hughes to lead their new academy department focusing on individual player development.

City began stepping up individual programmes under Jason Wilcox's final years in charge of the academy and Thomas Krucken has ramped those up further since taking over last season. Other sports will be introduced for youngsters to play and think about next season as part of the goal Krucken has set everyone in the academy and across City Football Group to fine the 'future player'.

As the club focus more on the specific qualities that will be needed in each position, more work is going into individual programmes for players to be trained up on the skills that are prioritised for their roles. Hughes, who has worked at City for the last 10 years, is heading up a new team to help with this.

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"I'm delighted to share that I've accepted the position of Head of Individual Player Development at Manchester City," he said. "The challenge of creating and implementing a new methodology, enhancing individual player development is an exciting prospect.

"I am eager to take on this opportunity, knowing that the rewards of seeing players thrive and excel will be immeasurable. The new role will involve building a new department and being part of our academy management structure. I’d like to express my gratitude to the club for the opportunity and to everyone who has been there for me throughout my journey so far."