Jonny Evans has confirmed his retirement from playing and taken up a role as head of loans and pathways at Manchester United.

Defender Evans made 536 senior appearances, including winning 107 caps for Northern Ireland.

The bulk of his club games came playing for United, with whom he won three Premier League titles, a Champions League, an FA Cup and two EFL Cups. He was made an MBE in 2023.

Evans has been hampered by injuries in recent years and made just seven league appearances for United last season, Aged 37, he has decided to hang up his boots.

🔴 Jonny Evans has been appointed as our Head of Loans and Pathways, confirming the end of his illustrious playing career 🤝

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 30, 2025

It’s been an honour – Evans

He told the club’s official website: “I want to officially announce my retirement from my playing career, not with sadness, but with pride, gratitude and excitement for the next chapter ahead. I’ll be forever indebted to the managers, coaches, staff and, of course, my team-mates, that I have had the privilege of working alongside throughout my 20 years in professional football.

“My biggest and most heartfelt thanks must go to the fans who have supported me during every step of the journey. It’s been an honour to be on the pitch and feel your passion home and away; I will be eternally grateful for every ounce of support.”

Evans excited by new role

Evans, who enjoyed a loan spell at Antwerp and two temporary stints at Sunderland early in his career, is excited by the chance of helping other young players get experience away from Old Trafford.

He added: “I am looking forward to working with the next generation of talented players to support them to reach their potential. Having had experience of loans myself, I know the crucial role that they can play within a player’s development. I am excited to help further develop the pathway to our first team and continue the legacy of young players thriving at Manchester United.”

United’s director of football Jason Wilcox said: “Having just finished his exceptional playing career, Jonny is the perfect role model for our young players.

“Jonny’s knowledge of what it takes to succeed at Manchester United will be of great benefit to each of them as we continue to develop world-class talent capable of performing in our first team.”