Following his retirement announcement last summer, Phil Jones dispatched his concluding message to the Manchester United players’ WhatsApp group. After a brief pause, noting the absence of any responses, he exited the chat.
Phil Jones has departed the group.
“I thought to myself, ‘that’s it, I’m done’,” he recounts with a chuckle. “Nobody seemed to notice or care. That’s football for you.”
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Reflecting on Retirement
The 33-year-old former defender is in good spirits as he contemplates the conclusion of his playing career. However, he acknowledges that “the simple act of leaving that WhatsApp group was surprisingly emotional. You’ve been part of that group for years, engaging in banter, sharing pictures, all sorts of things – you journalists would have a field day with it.”
“You journalists” refers to a small assembly of reporters situated in a quiet area of St George’s Park. Jones, a former Manchester United player reflecting on his career, is undertaking two days of media training as part of the 18-month UEFA Pro Licence coaching course. The journalists are present to subject him and fellow candidates to simulated press conferences.
Transition to Coaching
Jones appears content, focused, and prepared for his next chapter. This swift transition is notable, particularly given his limited prior consideration of future plans. Retirement was not initially on his radar, “because towards the latter stages of my career, I felt capable of continuing to play. I believed I could still perform at the required level. However, my body ultimately couldn’t withstand it, which was incredibly disheartening.”
The conclusion was challenging, with a recurring knee injury, initially sustained during his academy days at Blackburn, ultimately curtailing his 14-year professional career. “The manner of its ending was difficult, not as I would have wished, but I remain proud of my accomplishments,” he states. “I cherish numerous fond memories and proud moments; I lived my dream.”
Career Highlights and Setbacks
During one Pro Licence course session, aspiring coaches were tasked with presenting six photographs: three personal and three football-related. Jones’s football selections depicted the contrasting peaks and troughs of his career.
- Playing in midfield for England against Brazil in 2013, wearing the No 7 shirt – “I was terrible”.
- Triumphantly winning the Premier League title with Manchester United in 2013.
- His comeback match against Wolves in January 2022, marking his return after a 700-day injury absence.
Reflecting on the Wolves game, Jones recounts, “My knee was severely damaged, and I was aware I would be playing due to Harry Maguire’s injury. Just stepping onto the pitch – it still gives me goosebumps – felt like the biggest victory, considering how dejected I had been. I had endured numerous operations, four or five on my knee.”
“Despite losing the game 1-0, the atmosphere in the dressing room afterwards was positive, with everyone offering congratulations. I sat there realizing it would likely be one of my final matches, or my last season.”
Dealing with Criticism and Injury
During his time away from the field, Jones admits to “becoming increasingly resentful towards football.” He required time “to process and reconcile with what had transpired and the way it unfolded.” The intense scrutiny he faced also took its toll, with criticism and abuse, both in person and online, proving difficult to endure. This experience has fostered empathy for current players like Mason Mount and Luke Shaw, who are currently facing considerable criticism despite unseen behind-the-scenes challenges.
“I deeply sympathize with Mason and Luke, as I understand precisely what they are experiencing,” Jones explains. “For me, it was often a feeling of embarrassment. Being at Manchester United, the world’s biggest club, all you desire is to play football – I simply loved playing football like any child. When that is taken away, it’s challenging to cope with, compounded by fan expectations and social media pressures.”
Future in Football
Upon the expiration of his Manchester United contract in 2023, Jones enrolled in the PFA Business School’s Global Football Sport Directorship course and the UEFA A Licence course. He also commenced working with Manchester United’s under-18s. Remaining idle was not an option.
“You find yourself at home, and your wife is looking at you, questioning, ‘Well, what are your plans for today?’ You become accustomed to constant activity, being away from home, and travelling. It was a difficult adjustment,” Jones admits.
“Footballers today are almost like robots, transitioning from one coach to another flight, then back into a game and training. I initially enjoyed the downtime, but soon became restless. That’s why I pursued the director’s pathway, seeking a different focus within football. However, my true passion lies on the pitch, and that’s where I genuinely enjoy being.”
Coaching Aspirations
Although not under contract with Manchester United’s under-18s, “they have graciously allowed me to be involved, which I appreciate. I wanted to broaden my understanding of the coaching aspect and observe their methods. I feel I am now positioned to embrace a new challenge.” The precise nature of this challenge remains undefined.
“I am realistic; I don’t expect to become a head coach or manager within the next few years,” Jones states. “I acknowledge I am starting at the bottom and must work my way up. I am fully prepared to do so.”
Phil Jones’s Coaching Style
Elaborating on his anticipated coaching style, Jones envisions a team that is “Aggressive, intense, and flexible. I am a winner,” he asserts. “My objective is to win football matches at all costs, even if it necessitates personnel changes or adopting alternative strategies to achieve results. It is ultimately a results-driven profession.”
“Entering a new role, attempting excessive system alterations or prematurely imposing rigid principles can be detrimental, potentially leading to early setbacks and jeopardizing your position. These elements must be gradually integrated into the team and squad over time. My ambition is to play expansive, attractive football, which is a universal aspiration. However, reality often dictates otherwise.”