Former Wales Manager Takes Charge of Liverpool U21s as Head Coach | OneFootball

Rob Page Appointed Liverpool U21s Head Coach Following Wales Success

Experience and development at the core of appointment

Liverpool have confirmed Rob Page as the new head coach of their U21s side, bringing in a figure of proven pedigree in both senior international and youth development football. Page replaces Barry Lewtas, who steps down after years of invaluable service to the Reds’ Academy.

The appointment was officially announced by LFC, marking a new chapter in the club’s approach to nurturing talent at the crucial transition point between youth football and first-team readiness.

“Rob brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to a key role as young players look to bridge that gap from Academy prospect to first-team footballer,” said Academy Director Alex Inglethorpe.

Page’s credentials are indisputable. He led Wales to the last 16 at Euro 2020 and then guided them to their first World Cup appearance in 64 years, taking them to Qatar in 2022. His success at the highest levels of the international game is accompanied by an eye for nurturing emerging players, a trait well-aligned with Liverpool’s ethos.

Photo: IMAGO

Background rooted in player development

Before managing Wales’ senior team, Page oversaw the national U21s and had broader responsibility for the country’s youth structure. His influence is widely acknowledged in helping pathway players graduate to the senior side, a continuity of focus that Inglethorpe praised.

“His recent achievements in guiding Wales to the last 16 at Euro 2020 before qualifying for the 2022 World Cup speak for themselves but perhaps less heralded is the work that took place during his time in charge of the national team, which saw numerous pathway players make it into the senior squad.”

“This is something we have seen first-hand at Liverpool with several of our Academy players making significant progress on the international stage under Rob’s guidance,” Inglethorpe added.

His appointment is seen not merely as a step to oversee the U21s, but as a move to embed elite-level coaching within the very fabric of Liverpool’s player development model.

From Premier League defender to respected manager

Page’s playing career was defined by consistency and leadership. The centre-back made over 250 appearances for Watford, captaining the side in the Premier League under Graham Taylor and earning Player of the Season honours during the 1999–2000 campaign. He earned 41 caps for Wales, also representing clubs including Sheffield United, Cardiff City, Coventry City, and Chesterfield before retiring in 2011.

His managerial path included stints at Port Vale and Northampton Town, before he stepped onto the international stage, where his composed touchline demeanour and developmental nous earned praise.

Clear alignment with Liverpool’s Academy vision

Liverpool’s Academy has long prided itself on producing players capable of impacting the first team. With Rob Page, they’ve added a figure who not only understands elite football but also respects the subtleties of helping young players mature, both technically and mentally.

Inglethorpe concluded: “This level of experience in transitioning young footballers towards the professional game and on to the highest levels of domestic and international football will be a significant resource for all at the Academy, especially the players.

“Myself and all the staff are greatly looking forward to working with Rob as we endeavour to continue producing players capable of playing at the highest level and in the most demanding of arenas.”