Committee Members
Experienced voices committed to supporting our members and strengthening our community.
[ Leadership ]
Our Members
Our directors provide the leadership and governance that keep the Association thriving.
[ Leadership ]
Our Members
Our directors provide the leadership and governance that keep the Association thriving.
Aaron Burns
Tony Whelan
Paul McGuinness
[ Recognition ]
Tony Whelan MBE
A Lifetime Dedicated to Developing People
[ Recognition ]
Tony Whelan MBE
A Lifetime Dedicated to Developing People
Congratulations, Tony Whelan MBE
The Association of Former Manchester United Players is delighted to congratulate Tony Whelan on being appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in His Majesty The King’s 2026 Birthday Honours List for services to sport.
For generations of young footballers, Tony has been far more than a coach. He has been a mentor, guide, educator and role model whose influence has extended well beyond the football pitch.
Throughout a distinguished career at Manchester United, Tony played a pivotal role in identifying, nurturing and supporting countless young players as they pursued their dreams in the game. His passion for youth development, commitment to excellence and unwavering belief in people have left an enduring legacy on the club and on the lives of those fortunate enough to work alongside him.
As one of the founder members of the Association of Former Manchester United Players, Tony has also been instrumental in helping preserve the values, traditions and community spirit that unite former players across generations
This honour is a fitting recognition of a lifetime devoted to service, development and opportunity.
In response to the announcement, Tony said:
“I am profoundly honoured, humbled and moved to be appointed MBE in His Majesty The King’s 2026 Birthday Honours List. I accept it with sincere gratitude to the wonderful people I had the privilege to collaborate with in the various departments at Manchester United Football Club during my service there.
No one receives recognition like this entirely on their own merit; and throughout my life, from schoolboy to youth soccer coach, I have rested gently in the bosom of some magnificent guardians, mentors and friends who don’t realise how much they have contributed to my long-term personal and professional development. I will forever be indebted to them.
Furthermore, it would be seriously remiss if I failed to acknowledge the countless young players I have been fortunate to meet. They have enriched my life immeasurably — bringing me boundless inspiration, happiness, joy and, above all, fun. I doff my cap to them.
It has been a lifetime passion to champion talented schoolboys aspiring to pursue a career in professional football. It is my hope that this award will highlight the supreme importance of this magical childhood world and the devotion, dedication and commitment of the staff who work within it
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to those who have been extremely kind and generous to nominate me; and to dedicate this accolade to my wife and family for their unconditional sacrifice, support, love and care throughout my coaching journey.”
His contribution to football, youth development and the Manchester United community has been immeasurable, and we are immensely proud to celebrate this special moment with him.
Congratulations, Tony Whelan MBE.
Association of Former Manchester United Players
June 2026
[ faqs ]
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Association?
Membership is open to all former Manchester United players, from club legends to those who signed professional forms. We welcome everyone who has been part of the United family.
How do I become a member?
Former players can contact the Association directly through our contact form or via email to start the membership process. Our team will guide you through the steps.
What types of events does the Association hold?
We host a variety of events including the Reunion Dinner, Charity Golf Day, and the Sportsman’s Dinner. These gatherings celebrate friendship, heritage, and support charitable causes.
Does the Association support any charities?
At the heart of our work is giving back. The Association proudly supports other charities particularly those focused on dementia and frail care, causes that are deeply connected to our members, their families and the journeys they are on today. Supporting one another beyond football is part of who we are.
Who runs the Association?
The Association is guided by a dedicated team of former players, including a Chairman, President, and Secretary, who oversee operations, events, and charitable work.
[ faqs ]
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Association?
Membership is open to all former Manchester United players, from club legends to those who signed professional forms. We welcome everyone who has been part of the United family.
How do I become a member?
Former players can contact the Association directly through our contact form or via email to start the membership process. Our team will guide you through the steps.
What types of events does the Association hold?
We host a variety of events including the Reunion Dinner, Charity Golf Day, and the Sportsman’s Dinner. These gatherings celebrate friendship, heritage, and support charitable causes.
Does the Association support any charities?
At the heart of our work is giving back. The Association proudly supports other charities particularly those focused on dementia and frail care, causes that are deeply connected to our members, their families and the journeys they are on today. Supporting one another beyond football is part of who we are.
Who runs the Association?
The Association is guided by a dedicated team of former players, including a Chairman, President, and Secretary, who oversee operations, events, and charitable work.
Committee Members
Experienced voices committed to supporting our members and strengthening our community.
[ Leadership ]
Our Members
Our directors provide the leadership and governance that keep the Association thriving.
[ Leadership ]
Our Members
Our directors provide the leadership and governance that keep the Association thriving.
Aaron Burns
Tony Whelan
Paul McGuinness
[ Recognition ]
Tony Whelan MBE
A Lifetime Dedicated to Developing People
[ Recognition ]
Tony Whelan MBE
A Lifetime Dedicated to Developing People
Congratulations, Tony Whelan MBE
The Association of Former Manchester United Players is delighted to congratulate Tony Whelan on being appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in His Majesty The King’s 2026 Birthday Honours List for services to sport.
For generations of young footballers, Tony has been far more than a coach. He has been a mentor, guide, educator and role model whose influence has extended well beyond the football pitch.
Throughout a distinguished career at Manchester United, Tony played a pivotal role in identifying, nurturing and supporting countless young players as they pursued their dreams in the game. His passion for youth development, commitment to excellence and unwavering belief in people have left an enduring legacy on the club and on the lives of those fortunate enough to work alongside him.
As one of the founder members of the Association of Former Manchester United Players, Tony has also been instrumental in helping preserve the values, traditions and community spirit that unite former players across generations
This honour is a fitting recognition of a lifetime devoted to service, development and opportunity.
In response to the announcement, Tony said:
“I am profoundly honoured, humbled and moved to be appointed MBE in His Majesty The King’s 2026 Birthday Honours List. I accept it with sincere gratitude to the wonderful people I had the privilege to collaborate with in the various departments at Manchester United Football Club during my service there.
No one receives recognition like this entirely on their own merit; and throughout my life, from schoolboy to youth soccer coach, I have rested gently in the bosom of some magnificent guardians, mentors and friends who don’t realise how much they have contributed to my long-term personal and professional development. I will forever be indebted to them.
Furthermore, it would be seriously remiss if I failed to acknowledge the countless young players I have been fortunate to meet. They have enriched my life immeasurably — bringing me boundless inspiration, happiness, joy and, above all, fun. I doff my cap to them.
It has been a lifetime passion to champion talented schoolboys aspiring to pursue a career in professional football. It is my hope that this award will highlight the supreme importance of this magical childhood world and the devotion, dedication and commitment of the staff who work within it
Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to those who have been extremely kind and generous to nominate me; and to dedicate this accolade to my wife and family for their unconditional sacrifice, support, love and care throughout my coaching journey.”
His contribution to football, youth development and the Manchester United community has been immeasurable, and we are immensely proud to celebrate this special moment with him.
Congratulations, Tony Whelan MBE.
Association of Former Manchester United Players
June 2026
[ faqs ]
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Association?
Membership is open to all former Manchester United players, from club legends to those who signed professional forms. We welcome everyone who has been part of the United family.
How do I become a member?
Former players can contact the Association directly through our contact form or via email to start the membership process. Our team will guide you through the steps.
What types of events does the Association hold?
We host a variety of events including the Reunion Dinner, Charity Golf Day, and the Sportsman’s Dinner. These gatherings celebrate friendship, heritage, and support charitable causes.
Does the Association support any charities?
At the heart of our work is giving back. The Association proudly supports other charities particularly those focused on dementia and frail care, causes that are deeply connected to our members, their families and the journeys they are on today. Supporting one another beyond football is part of who we are.
Who runs the Association?
The Association is guided by a dedicated team of former players, including a Chairman, President, and Secretary, who oversee operations, events, and charitable work.