Plymouth Argyle Closing in on Tom Cleverley Head Coach Appointment

Plymouth Argyle Closing in on Tom Cleverley Head Coach Appointment

Plymouth Argyle are reportedly close to appointing Tom Cleverley as their new head coach, with the former Manchester United and England midfielder emerging as the club’s number one target. The 35-year-old is believed to have impressed during the interview process, and an official announcement could be made in the coming days.

Following their relegation from the Championship at the end of the 2024/25 season, Argyle have been searching for a fresh, forward-thinking leader to steer the club back toward stability and long-term success. After parting ways with Miron Muslic—who recently left for German side Schalke 04—the Home Park hierarchy wasted no time in identifying Cleverley as the standout candidate.

Cleverley, who retired from playing in 2023, took his first coaching steps at Watford, eventually taking over as interim head coach late in the 2023/24 season. His brief but encouraging stint in charge helped stabilize the Hornets and drew praise for his composure, tactical awareness, and ability to connect with players. Despite being let go by Watford after the 2024/25 campaign, Cleverley remains highly regarded within coaching circles and is seen as one of the brightest young managerial prospects in English football.

Argyle’s head of football operations, David Fox, alongside football consultant Stuart Webber, has led the recruitment process. The club is believed to have interviewed several candidates, including experienced figures and up-and-coming coaches. However, Cleverley’s modern football outlook, emphasis on player development, and understanding of Championship and League One football reportedly set him apart from the competition.

The potential appointment signals a clear intent from Argyle to focus on a long-term project. With their relegation still fresh, the board is aiming to rebuild with a coach capable of instilling a strong identity and reconnecting with the fanbase. Cleverley’s experience at the top level—having played under managers like Sir Alex Ferguson, Roberto Martínez, and Roy Hodgson—has given him a broad tactical education, something he now looks to translate into coaching success.

Should he be appointed, Cleverley will inherit a squad in need of both motivation and restructuring. The club’s recent inconsistency and high managerial turnover—having gone through several coaches in under two years—have disrupted progress. Argyle will be hoping that Cleverley can bring stability, clarity, and a return to upward momentum.

Supporters appear cautiously optimistic about the potential appointment. While some may question his limited managerial experience, others point to the fresh energy and perspective he could bring. In a league where tactical innovation and player development are becoming more crucial than ever, Cleverley may prove to be a timely fit.

With pre-season fast approaching, Plymouth Argyle are keen to finalise the appointment quickly. If all goes to plan, Tom Cleverley could be unveiled as the new head coach by the end of the week, ushering in a new chapter for the club and the former Premier League star.

Read more on;https://www.sportupdates.co.uk