Liverpool has announced the departure of Under-21s head coach Barry Lewtas, who has left the club after a lengthy spell on Merseyside.

The 44-year-old has been at the Reds for 12 years and was appointed as U21s coach in 2020.

It means there will be a summer of change at Liverpool’s Kirkby Academy, with U18s coach Marc Bridge-Wilkinson also departing at the end of the season.

Lewtas was in charge of the Under-18s when it won the FA Youth Cup in 2019, beating a Manchester City side that featured Cole Palmer and Jeremie Frimpong on penalties.

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“Of course, I’m sad to be moving on but I also have 12 wonderful years to look back on, including the last five with the U21s.

“Seeing young players make that next step to the first team or moving on to success elsewhere is hugely satisfying.

“I want to give a massive thanks to all the staff I’ve worked with throughout the age groups, to all the players who have been part of those teams and also to their parents, who are often forgotten about but play such a vital role in making sure their sons can reach their full potential.



Barry Lewtas has left Liverpool as Under-21 head coach

“Everything I've ever done has been about the team and they have all helped make the journey as special as it has been.

“Now I’m looking forward to being a fan from afar and full of energy and excitement for what comes next.”

Both the U21s and U18s have failed to consistently compete with the two Manchester clubs in recent years

“Barry’s influence has been felt at so many age groups in the Academy and he leaves with our very best wishes,” said academy director Alex Inglethorpe.

“Player development is at the forefront of our role and many young players owe him a debt of gratitude for helping them towards first-team football both here at LFC and of course elsewhere in the pyramid.

“His spell with the U18s brought the club a fourth FA Youth Cup victory in a memorable night in Manchester, while his stewardship of the U21s over the last five years has seen a number of players make their first-team debuts.

“I’d like to thank Barry for everything he has contributed to life at the Academy, both on and off the pitch, and I know everyone at the club will wish him well in his exciting journey to come.”


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