Manchester United have launched a ‘pioneering’ Alumni programme to provide better aftercare to players once they leave Old Trafford.

The scheme, which has been two years in the making, was officially launched last Friday prior to the Under-21s clash against Liverpool.

More than 40 former United stars were invited to the match to celebrate the Alumni programme’s launch, with guests including Fraizer Campbell, Tyler Blackett, Devonte Redmond, Ashley Fletcher and Joe Thompson.

The idea is for players of all ages to benefit from opportunities that United can provide, including coaching, education, networking and use of facilities to help them land contracts elsewhere.

United sources have indicated that more than 200 former players will form part of the network that will actively engage with the academy at Carrington, receiving help, support and advice for the rest of their career, or in helping them land a career change.

The scheme, which has been two years in the making, was officially launched last Friday

‘I am extremely proud of our aftercare programme,’ head of academy Nick Cox said.

‘We put a huge amount of focus on ensuring that we are able to continue to support young people long after they leave the academy.

‘We have always kept excellent relationships with everyone who has been part of our system; the Alumni initiative is designed to formalise our network to ensure that no player misses out on the incredible opportunities that come from being associated with Manchester United.’

United are planning to host a series of events for these players under the umbrella of ‘United Once, United Forever’ in the coming months.

It has been a brilliant season for the club’s academy, with the current crop of Under-18s winning the Premier League North title, while they have the chance to add the Premier League Cup when they face Man City next week. They also have the prospect of a national final against the Premier League South champions.

But United are well aware that not every player in the academy will progress to the first team and they have been eager to step up their aftercare.

Earlier this season, the academy hosted a pilot event for the Alumni programme which saw several ex-players return to Carrington to participate in a training camp.

The main focus of that week was coaching and physical preparation devised to support them in finding a new playing contract at another club. They also engaged in a series of workshops to help emphasise the number of opportunities available when they consider their post-playing career options.