Manchester United have appointed Darren Hughes as head of academy football development and methodology. Hughes moved to Old Trafford from Manchester City, where he spent 11 years in multiple capacities.

United advertised the role at the beginning of last month. The club described the position as “fundamental to the long-term vision of United in identifying and developing the best coaches and the best young players”. Hughes’ most recent position at City was head of coaching within the academy, where he oversaw coach development and the coaching philosophy. Hughes becomes another figure to represent both City and United, alongside Omar Berrada.

Hughes will answer to Stephen Torpey, head of the academy. United sources have suggested Hughes emerged as the outstanding candidate following a comprehensive recruitment process.

Before his progression at City, he worked as Under-16 lead coach, Under-18 assistant and Under-11 lead. He arrived at City in summer 2014 after spending seven years with Liverpool.

Curtis Jones and Jarrell Quansah emerged through Liverpool’s academy whilst Hughes was at Anfield. Hughes played a part in developing Oscar Bobb, Romeo Lavia and Cole Palmer at City.

Torpey had worked alongside Hughes previously during his stint at City. United recruited Torpey as head of the academy from Brentford in September, following Nick Cox’s departure to Everton.

A report in The Sun has claimed that Hughes will not be able to start work at United for six months, due to the terms of his contract at City.

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Torpey joined City in 2014 and gradually rose through their youth development structure, ultimately overseeing coaching responsibilities spanning the Under-15s through to Under-23s level, where he led sides to trophy success.

United possess numerous promising youngsters within their academy ranks whom Hughes will aim to develop for first-team involvement, following the example of Kobbie Mainoo, who has featured in every match under Michael Carrick’s stewardship.

JJ Gabriel is regarded as the next major prospect at Old Trafford, with Kai Rooney, son of United icon Wayne Rooney, similarly highly rated.

Both teenagers excelled in United’s victory over West Ham earlier this week, securing their place in the under-18s Premier League Cup final. Gabriel found the net during normal time whilst Rooney struck in extra-time.

United are scheduled to meet Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park for the trophy in late April, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe present at Carrington to witness their semi-final success.

Carrick has demonstrated keen enthusiasm in attending academy fixtures since assuming interim charge of United in January, but was prevented from observing this match due to travel commitments and preparations for the Premier League clash against Newcastle United.

Despite enjoying a numerical advantage throughout the entire second period, Carrick witnessed his unbeaten run end as Will Osula struck a magnificent late winner for Newcastle.