Ex-Man United Star Phil Jones in Running to Secure First Manager's Job Amid Championship Sack Update

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones is emerging as a candidate for his first managerial role following the sacking of Blackburn Rovers' head coach Valerien Ismael in the EFL Championship. Jones, who began his professional career at Blackburn, is reportedly in contention to replace Ismael amid the club's turbulent season.

Jones joined Blackburn Rovers' youth setup in 2002 and broke into the first team during the 2009–10 Premier League campaign, signing a two-year professional contract. He made his debut in the League Cup against Nottingham Forest and impressed in his Premier League start against Chelsea, earning praise for his assured performance in a 1–1 draw. Despite injuries, he featured in 26 league matches the following season before transferring to Manchester United in June 2011 for around £16.5 million.[1]

At United, Jones made over 200 appearances, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Europa League. His career was hampered by injuries, but he remained a committed squad member under Sir Alex Ferguson and beyond.[3] Internationally, he earned 27 caps for England, including at the 2014 World Cup and Euro 2012.

Since retiring, Jones has pursued coaching. In a September 2025 interview, he discussed his rewarding experience working in Manchester United's Academy alongside coaches like Adam Lawrence and Colin Little. He focused on session planning, player development, and transitioning youth talents to the first team, describing it as his passion: "It's what I want to go into... let's see what the future holds."[2] He praised the technically gifted U18 group, some of whom have trained with United's senior side under Darren Fletcher.

The opportunity at Blackburn—his boyhood club—represents a potential homecoming and first senior managerial job. Sources indicate Jones' leadership and academy insights make him a strong fit as Rovers seek stability post-Ismael's dismissal. His Blackburn roots and recent coaching preparation position him ideally for the Championship challenge.

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