Man Utd legend agrees deal to manage in non-league after dismal season saw him relegated from EFL
MANCHESTER UNITED legend Mark Hughes will manage in the National League next season.
The 61-year-old has agreed to remain as Carlisle United boss following the club’s relegation from League Two.
Hughes thanked supporters in an official statement, which read: “I’m thrilled to be staying at the club.
“Since joining back in February, the support I’ve received from the fans has been exceptional – thank you.
“I hope to see more of the same next season as we aim for an immediate return to the EFL.”
Carlisle chief Tom Piatak added: “Mark brought the squad together during the closing stretch of the season and gave us a fighting chance.
“His leadership, composure, and connection with the players was clear, and we’re confident in his ability to lead us forward.”
Hughes’ relegation to the fifth tier comes just six-and-a-half years after he was managing Southampton in the Premier League.
He has been in charge of Wales and six top-flight sides during his lengthy career in Blackburn, Manchester City, Fulham, QPR and Stoke.
But Sparky has been in League Two since his initial shock return to the dugout with Bradford in 2022.
Though he lasted just 18 months at Valley Parade before being sacked.
Managing in the lower leagues in England does not bother Hughes, exclusively telling SunSport: “I have no ego.
“Just because I played for United and managed clubs like City, or led my country, doesn’t mean being in charge of a National League team would somehow be beneath me.
“Maybe other people might feel that but not me, even if I recognise it would be pretty unique for someone with some of the high spots I’ve had in my career.
“I showed how much I still love being a manager by going to Bradford — when you’ve been a manager as long as I have you just miss that buzz of standing on the touchline at three o’clock on a Saturday afternoon.”
Back in his playing days, Hughes starred for the likes of Man Utd, Barcelona. Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
He won two Prem titles, three FA Cups and the Cup Winners’ Cup in a glittering seven seasons at Old Trafford.
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