Phil Jones, the former Manchester United and England defender, has faced numerous challenges since retiring from professional football. After a career marred by injuries, Jones is now focused on a new chapter in football: management.

The Transition from Player to Coach

Jones retired at the age of 31, having played only 16 games in his final three seasons at Manchester United. The transition from the pitch to the sidelines was not easy. "When I finished, to give myself a bit of focus after football, I embarked on a sporting directors course," Jones revealed. "As things started to progress, I decided to take my coaching qualifications and that really established for myself what I wanted to do."

Overcoming the Pain of Retirement

The first year after retirement was particularly tough for Jones. "As a footballer, you get told what to do every single day," he said. "When you find yourself at home and the missus is looking at you thinking, 'Well, are you doing anything today?' it was difficult." Jones admitted that he initially struggled with the lack of structure and purpose, but coaching has given him a new sense of direction.

The Injury Nightmare

Jones' career was defined by his battles with injuries. He recalled a particularly difficult moment: "After I had a microfracture in my knee. I was out for 10 months, and I was so happy to get the surgery because I thought this is putting this to bed. But when I got back on the grass and started to pass the ball again, I was like, 'Yeah, this hasn't worked.'"

The Emotional Exit from Manchester United

Leaving Manchester United was an emotional experience for Jones. "It was quite an emotional moment -- the most simple things to do," he said. "You've been on the WhatsApp group for years, sending people pictures and all sorts, and I remember sitting in the bedroom with messages saying, 'It's been a pleasure and blah, blah, blah.'"

The Future in Management

Jones is now focused on his coaching career. "I'm not naive enough to think that I'm going to become a head coach or a manager in the next two or three years," he said. "I understand that now I'm on the other side of the ladder where I've got to work myself up and build myself up. But I'm absolutely ready to do that."

The Challenges Ahead

Jones also spoke about the challenges facing Manchester United under new manager Ruben Amorim. "They're going through a really tough time," he said. "There's no getting away from, there's no hiding. It's been a really, really tough year." Jones hopes that Amorim can bring success back to the club.

Conclusion

Phil Jones' journey from player to coach is a testament to his resilience and ambition. Despite the challenges he has faced, Jones is determined to make a name for himself in football management. His story is one of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of a new dream.