Lee Grant Takes Charge as Head Coach at Walsall FC

Manchester United has seen several former players transition into coaching roles, with many ex-Reds now holding senior positions in English football. As the club gears up for another busy summer, one familiar face from the dressing room has made a significant move in management.

Former goalkeeper Lee Grant’s impressive rise following his retirement continues, as he has now secured a new position ahead of the upcoming season.

Lee Grant lands new job with Walsall

Lee Grant has been named the new head coach of Walsall FC on a three-year contract. This announcement comes as the club prepares for the 2026/27 League Two season, with Walsall confirming his appointment as their new men’s first-team coach on their website.

The club believes that Grant’s playing and coaching experience makes him the ideal candidate to lead their next phase of development.

Grant aims to push the club forward after quickly building a solid coaching reputation since his retirement in 2022 during his time at Manchester United.

During his four years at Old Trafford, he made two competitive appearances, but his impact behind the scenes was significant. In his final season, he transitioned into a player-coach role, assisting with training sessions while preparing for his management career.

This experience paved the way for his coaching journey post-retirement. He subsequently joined Ipswich Town, where he served as assistant manager under Kieran McKenna. Grant’s first senior managerial position was with Huddersfield Town in May 2025.

He managed 36 competitive matches before departing in January, with the team positioned in the play-off places at that time.

Lee Grant achieved a 41 percent win rate during his tenure at Huddersfield, and was eventually let go earlier this year. His initial months for the club were particularly remarkable, with eight victories in his first ten games across all competitions, including Carabao Cup wins against Leicester City and Sunderland, before being eliminated by Manchester City.

Following his appointment at Walsall, Grant expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m super delighted and proud to be the new Head Coach of Walsall Football Club. It’s been an extensive process that’s been ongoing for the last couple of weeks, focusing on aligning our vision for the club.”

“I feel fortunate to have had the journey I’ve had, working with top professionals throughout my lengthy playing career. The experiences I gained with Ipswich Town and Huddersfield Town have shaped me as a coach.”

Grant further stated, “The teams I’ve been part of have scored numerous goals, and my ideas around development are strong – it’s going to be a busy time for both myself and the club, but I’m eager to get started and help propel the football club forward.”

His coaching journey has been influenced by working alongside elite managers, including Sean Dyche, Eddie Howe, and Jose Mourinho. His time at Manchester United, even in a backup capacity, undeniably laid a solid foundation for his coaching career, which is progressing rapidly in English football.