Darren Fletcher, the Manchester United Under-18s manager, is facing a charge from the Football Association following his comments about Manchester City's celebrations after the FA Youth Cup final. United lost 2-1 to City at the Joie Stadium, with the hosts' trophy lift including the reading out of individual players and coaches' names, which Fletcher deemed excessive.
Fletcher expressed his disappointment with the FA for allowing the final to be held at City's academy stadium rather than a main venue, and criticised the 'parade-like' atmosphere. He said: 'I've never heard individual coaches be shouted out, every individual player be shouted out. That doesn't happen in cup finals. So I'm disappointed in the FA for everything that's gone around this game, for the location, for everything.'
The venue itself was a point of contention, as City could not use the Etihad due to construction work. United offered Old Trafford as an alternative, but City declined. Fletcher noted that the FA should take 'control back' of the competition, adding: 'It felt like it was a Man City competition for this whole build-up.'
Despite his frustrations, Fletcher praised City's manager and players, stating: 'Man City have got a fantastic manager... Dead respectful. Coaches his team the right way.' He also acknowledged that the best team won on the night.
The FA has yet to comment on the charge, but Fletcher's remarks have sparked debate about the appropriate tone of post-match celebrations in youth football.
