AcademyBarry Lewtas to step down as Liverpool U21s head coach
Barry Lewtas is to step down from his role as head coach of Liverpool U21s, bringing 12 years of service with the club to an end.
Lewtas has filled several positions at the Academy during that period, firstly with the U12s group, then with the U15s/16s, followed by two seasons with the U18s, whom he led to a memorable FA Youth Cup victory in 2019.
For the past five seasons he has overseen the vital final link from the Academy to the men’s team as U21s head coach while also leading the U19s group in several exciting campaigns in the UEFA Youth League.
His success can partly be measured by the fact the Reds’ Premier League-winning squad of 2024-25 had more minutes played by homegrown Academy players than any other side in the division.
“Sometimes you just know the time is right for a new adventure and I really feel the perfect time for me is now,” said Lewtas.
“Of course, I’m sad to be moving on but I also have 12 wonderful years to look back on, including the last five with the U21s. Seeing young players make that next step to the LFC first team or moving on to success elsewhere is hugely satisfying.
“I want to give a massive thanks to all the staff I’ve worked with throughout the age groups, to all the players who have been part of those teams and also to their parents, who are often forgotten about but play such a vital role in making sure their sons can reach their full potential.
“Everything I've ever done has been about the team and they have all helped make the journey as special as it has been. Now I’m looking forward to being a fan from afar and full of energy and excitement for what comes next.”
The players to have worked under Lewtas include Curtis Jones, who first played for him as an U15, and Conor Bradley at U16s onwards, while Harvey Elliott gained vital experience as part of his Youth League teams.
Vitezslav Jaros, James McConnell, Tyler Morton and Jarell Quansah also made the jump into the senior side, while his Youth Cup-winning squad featured the likes of Leighton Clarkson and Neco Williams, who have enjoyed success in the Scottish Premiership and Premier League respectively.
Academy director Alex Inglethorpe said: “Barry’s influence has been felt at so many age groups in the Academy and he leaves with our very best wishes.
“Player development is at the forefront of our role and many young players owe him a debt of gratitude for helping them towards first-team football both here at LFC and of course elsewhere in the pyramid.
“His spell with the U18s brought the club a fourth FA Youth Cup victory in a memorable night in Manchester, while his stewardship of the U21s over the last five years has seen a number of players make their LFC first-team debuts.
“I’d like to thank Barry for everything he has contributed to life at the Academy, both on and off the pitch, and I know everyone at the club will wish him well in his exciting journey to come.”