New Delhi: Andy Mangan, Stockport’s assistant coach, has been denied a move to join Real Madrid after his work permit application was rejected. The 38-year-old coach, known for his journey through the lower leagues as a player, had been eyeing a chance to work under Carlo Ancelotti in the Champions League. However, Brexit regulations complicated the process, and his bid for the required paperwork to work in Spain has been turned down. Under current rules, securing a work permit in Spain can take up to nine months, but Mangan’s application didn’t make it through.
Mangan was preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime—coaching top stars like Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham at one of the biggest clubs in Europe. His link with Madrid comes from his close relationship with Ancelotti’s son, Davide, who is also part of the coaching staff at the club. The two became close while completing their Uefa coaching badges together.
⚡️Andy Magan is not joining Carlo Ancelotti’s staff at Real Madrid for now, as per @JNorthcroft
He has been denied a work permit, something that was pending as reported last week
NEW: the club has hired young nutritionist Alberto Valiño@TheAthleticFC https://t.co/WcEmgdVR00
— Mario Cortegana (@MarioCortegana) September 10, 2024
Despite the setback, Mangan will remain with Stockport County, where he has made an impact since joining in March. His role focuses on developing the team’s attacking players, which played a key part in their success last season, as Stockport won League Two and secured promotion. They’ve carried that momentum into this season, sitting second in League One after an unbeaten start under manager Dave Challinor.
Mangan’s coaching career has grown steadily over the years. Before joining Stockport, he worked alongside Joey Barton at Fleetwood Town and Bristol Rovers, gaining valuable experience. He even stepped up as caretaker manager at Bristol Rovers after Barton’s departure in 2023.
As a player, Mangan’s career was spent mostly in non-league football, representing clubs like Forest Green, Wrexham, Fleetwood, and Tranmere. He earned a single cap for England C, a team for non-league players, and experienced the joy of promotion from the National League on three occasions.
Andy Mangan’s move to Real Madrid was blocked due to Brexit work permit issues, keeping him at Stockport County. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
