Lawrence steps down as Newcastle U21s boss after four months
Written by
Simon Austin
January 12, 2026
Adam Lawrence has stepped down from his role as Newcastle United’s U21s Lead after four months.
The 40-year-old joined the Magpies on September 1st after almost five years with Manchester United, where he was U18s Lead.
Lawrence announced his exit on LinkedIn, writing: “I have made the decision to leave my role as U21 Player Development Lead at Newcastle United Academy.
“After being at the club for a short period of time this was a really difficult decision to make. However, there are times in life where you have to make tough choices and this is one of those moments.
“I would like to thank (Academy Manager) Steve Harper for the opportunity to work at such an amazing club, and wish the Academy and Club every success in the future. Newcastle is a truly special place.
“I look forward to exploring potential opportunities that are out there for me.”
U21s Assistant Robbie Stockdale has been placed in interim charge of the side and will lead the team in their Premier League International Cup tie against Benfica on Tuesday.
During Lawrence’s time at Manchester United, his side won the U18s Premier League and Premier League Cup in 2023/24. At Newcastle, he had replaced Diarmuid O’Carroll, who left last summer to become First-Team Coach at Sparta Prague.
Category One Newcastle placed 25th in TGG’s Academy Productivity Rankings for 2024/25, down from 19th the previous season.
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