Richard Beale - The Return

Richard Beale has been re-appointed u18s Head Coach after Jimmy Shan's promotion to the u21s. Beale who led the u18s back in 2019 has big shoes to fill after his predecessor led Villa’s u18s to the treble in his first season - winning the u18 Premier League South, the u18 Premier League and the FA Youth Cup.

Monchi:

“We are very happy that Richard has returned to Aston Villa to take charge of our Under-18 team.

“He has a lot of experience and a track record of developing young talent, which will be a great asset to our Academy and our young players.”

Academy Manager Mark Harrison:

"Richard is a very experienced coach who spent some time with us a few years ago, and we are delighted he has re-joined us and will be working with our Under-18s again.

"He is a proven developer of young players who has worked with a number of players who have had successful careers, and we look forward to him working closely with all our other staff to continue the good work that has been going on."

Richard Beale:

“It’s a fantastic club and I feel very fortunate to be back,” he said.

“It’s a big, historic club, and it’s a pleasure to work with these lads again.”

“A lot of the staff where here when I was here before and there are a few new staff that I know anyway, so that really helps the settling in process.

“The surroundings at Villa are familiar and it’s a club I know well – I’m a local lad.

“I’m looking to build on what’s previously been done here and the fantastic foundations that have been laid in the Academy.”