Former Manchester United goalkeeper Lee Grant is back in the game. After a tough spell at Huddersfield Town, the 43-year-old has been handed a fresh start as the new head coach of Walsall, signing a three-year deal at the Pallet-Track Bescot Stadium.
Grant's football journey has been anything but ordinary. From his early days at Derby County, Sheffield Wednesday, and Burnley, to tasting Premier League football with Stoke City, he eventually landed at Old Trafford in 2018. During four seasons with Manchester United, he made just two senior appearances—his only start coming in a Europa League loss to FC Astana under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2019.
After hanging up his gloves in 2022, Grant transitioned into coaching, first as a first-team coach at Ipswich Town under Kieran McKenna. Last May, he was appointed manager of Huddersfield Town on a three-year deal, but unfortunately, results didn't go his way and he was let go in January.
Now, Grant has a chance to rebuild his managerial career at Walsall. The League Two side finished 13th last season, but there's reason for optimism—they actually led the league at Christmas before falling off the pace. "I'm super delighted and proud to be the new head coach," Grant said. "The teams I've been involved in have scored lots of goals and there's been good development of players. It's going to be a busy period, but I'm really excited to get going and help the football club progress."
Walsall's Head of Football, Stewart Mairs, is equally enthusiastic: "Throughout the process, Lee demonstrated a tremendous hunger and desire to be part of this football club. He is highly articulate, detail-oriented, and possesses a strong understanding of the modern game—but just as importantly, he is an excellent person."
For fans of the beautiful game, this is a story of resilience and second chances. Whether you're cheering from the stands or gearing up for your own match day, remember: every new season brings fresh opportunities to write your own comeback story.
