Explained: Why Manchester United staff have been left 'shocked, angry and upset' as Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans brutal exodus

According to The Telegraph, numerous well-respected, long-serving coaches are among those who might lose their jobs in this drastic cost-cutting exercise. It was earlier reported that the INEOS chief aims to eliminate approximately 250 jobs, representing over 20 per cent of the workforce. This news comes as a severe blow to the staff, who have been anticipating potential cuts since Ratcliffe brought in Interpath Advisory in March to assess all business, operational, and employee costs.

The revelation that the future of several long-serving academy coaches is at risk has particularly stunned many at Carrington. Among those affected are Stuart Leicester and Neil Harris, who have each dedicated at least two decades to Manchester United. Additionally, three other academy coaches – Chris Sims, Rick Ashcroft, and Chris Backhouse – are also believed to be at risk. Graham Buckingham, who has been with the club for 34 years and recently received an outstanding staff award, is also facing redundancy.

The academy has been a cornerstone of United's success, consistently producing talented players like Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo and several others - who are now indispensable members of Erik te Hag's team. The potential loss of key academy staff raises concerns about the future development of young players at the club.

The current wave of job cuts is part of a broader effort by Ratcliffe and his INEOS team to streamline operations and reduce costs. While many non-football staff had been bracing for this possibility, the impact on the academy has been particularly hard-hitting, given the long-standing contributions of the coaches involved. The potential loss of these experienced and respected coaches marks a challenging period for the club's youth setup.