Manchester United are set to lose a key figure from their backroom staff, with academy director Nick Cox expected to join Everton as the Toffees’ new technical director.
The 47 year old Nick Cox, has played a vital role at Old Trafford since joining in 2016 and has led the club’s academy since 2019. During his tenure, he oversaw the development of talent from the Under-9 level to the Under-21s, helping maintain United’s legacy of youth promotion. Notable graduates under his leadership include Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, both now first-team regulars, while others like Toby Collyer and Harry Amass are on the rise.
According to reports from The i, talks between Cox and Everton are in advanced stages, with an announcement expected soon. His departure will be a significant loss for United, especially after being recently named in an all-staff email as a “key leader” in the football department, per The Athletic.
While Cox is expected to remain at United until a successor is appointed, his decision to step into a senior leadership role at Everton signals another major step in the Toffees’ ongoing structural revamp.
Following the Friedkin Group’s takeover in December, Everton have already reappointed David Moyes as manager and are planning a fresh start at their new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium. Recruitment has become a top priority, and Cox’s arrival aligns with the club’s long-term strategy to rebuild.
In addition, Everton are set to bring in Manchester City’s recruitment and scouting director James Smith, who previously worked with Moyes during his earlier stints at Everton and Manchester United. This move further highlights Everton’s intention to assemble a forward-thinking and experienced backroom team.
Cox’s departure adds to the changes at Manchester United this summer, as the club continues reshaping its football operations under new manager Ruben Amorim. With the new season on the horizon, United now face the added task of finding a capable successor to continue their youth development legacy.