Sheff United Way
·28 January 2025
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Yahoo sportsSheff United Way
·28 January 2025
Sheffield United boss Chris Wilder has committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract, keeping him at Bramall Lane until the summer of 2028. The deal also extends to his trusted backroom staff, including assistant Alan Knill and first-team coach Matt Prestridge.
Wilder, who returned to the club in December 2023 during a challenging period in the Premier League, has overseen an impressive rebuild that has revitalised the entire football club. Operating within the Championship’s automatic promotion places for much of the current campaign, Wilder and his staff have been praised for their efforts in turning the club’s fortunes around. This new contract is a testament to the confidence the new owners have in his ability to lead them to further success.
Co-chairmen Steven Rosen and Helmy Eltoukhy expressed their delight at securing Wilder’s future, stating:
“We are delighted that Chris has signed a new contract with the Blades. Chris and his backroom staff have worked tirelessly to get the team in the best position possible. It has been a pleasure working with Chris and his knowledgeable team during this exciting new chapter for Sheffield United.”
Having previously managed the Blades from 2016 to 2021, Wilder’s first spell included quick-fire promotions from League One and the Championship, as well as a remarkable ninth-place finish in the Premier League. His deep connection to the club and the city was evident as he spoke about his new deal.
“Sheffield United is my club, and there is no place I’d rather be, so I am thrilled to be signing a new deal. The football club is in a really good place, there’s a real feelgood factor around the training ground, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together.”
Wilder also praised the new ownership for their support, highlighting their role in backing his vision for the club:
“The new owners have been incredibly helpful to me since they arrived, and I’d personally like to thank them for their faith and support. My thanks also extend to the supporters who have stuck with us after a difficult time last season. You all know how I feel about this football club, and your continued backing is never underestimated.”
The Blades’ new ownership has wasted no time in showing their commitment to Wilder’s plans, making key signings during the January transfer window.
On top of this, plans are constantly ongoing regarding United’s new first-team training facility at the HSBC Sports and Social Club in Dore. While this will provide the first-team with a more spacious and much-improved training ground, it will also allow the Blades’ youth academy at Shirecliffe to become a category one youth academy.