Simon Wiles is an English football coach and former professional midfielder who has built a strong reputation in youth development. After playing for clubs including Blackpool, Macclesfield Town, Dunfermline Athletic, Barrow, and Salford City, he moved into coaching and steadily progressed through academy football. His coaching journey includes roles at Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, Manchester United Academy, and Liverpool FC. In 2026, he became Liverpool Under-18 Head Coach, reflecting his growing influence in elite player development. This article explores Simon Wiles’ early life, playing career, coaching achievements, personal life, health, net worth, and his contribution to modern English football.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Simon Peter Wiles |
| Profession | Football Coach, Former Professional Footballer |
| Known For | Liverpool FC Under-18 Head Coach |
| Date of Birth | 22 April 1985 |
| Age | 41 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Preston, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Playing Position | Right Midfielder |
| Current Club | Liverpool FC |
| Current Role | Under-18 Head Coach |
| Playing Career | 2003–2015 |
| Coaching Career | 2015–Present |
| First Senior Club | Blackpool FC |
| Former Clubs | Macclesfield Town, Dunfermline Athletic, Barrow, Chorley, Salford City, Bamber Bridge |
| Former Coaching Roles | Bamber Bridge, Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, Manchester United Academy |
| Coaching Qualifications | UEFA B Licence, FA Youth Modules |
| Known Strength | Youth Player Development |
Early Life and Education
Simon Wiles was born on 22 April 1985 in Preston, England. From an early age, he showed a strong passion for football and developed his skills through local youth programmes. His dedication helped him progress into professional football before later building a successful coaching career. His early experiences as both a player and student of the game shaped the coaching philosophy that has earned recognition at top English academies, including Manchester United and Liverpool FC.
Childhood
Simon Wiles grew up in Preston, where football played an important role in his childhood. He spent many years improving his technical ability and understanding of the game through youth football. His determination and consistent performances attracted attention from professional clubs. These early experiences helped him develop the discipline and work ethic that later supported both his playing and coaching careers.
Football Development
Simon Wiles progressed through the youth system at Blackpool FC, where he developed as a talented right midfielder. The academy environment improved his technical skills, tactical awareness, and professionalism. His performances earned him a professional contract and the opportunity to begin his senior career. His academy experience also introduced him to player development methods that later influenced his own coaching approach.
Coaching Qualifications
After retiring from professional football, Simon Wiles invested in his coaching education. He earned the UEFA B Coaching Licence and completed several FA Youth Modules, strengthening his knowledge of player development. These qualifications prepared him for academy coaching roles at leading clubs. His commitment to continuous learning has helped him guide young footballers through important stages of their development while meeting the high standards expected in elite academy football.
Professional Playing Career
Simon Wiles enjoyed a professional playing career that lasted from 2003 to 2015. As a right midfielder, he represented clubs in England and Scotland while gaining valuable experience across different levels of football. His playing journey helped him understand player development, teamwork, and tactical discipline. These experiences later became the foundation of his successful coaching career. The following sections outline his time at Blackpool, his loan spells, his move to Scotland, and his final years as a professional footballer.
Blackpool FC
Simon Wiles began his senior career with Blackpool FC, where he progressed from the academy into the first team. He made his professional debut in 2003 and developed into a hardworking midfielder known for his energy and passing ability. Although injuries occasionally affected his progress, he gained important first-team experience and established himself as a reliable squad member during his early professional years.
Loan Spells at Macclesfield Town
To gain regular first-team football, Simon Wiles joined Macclesfield Town on loan. The move gave him valuable match experience and helped him develop greater confidence in competitive football. Playing regularly improved his tactical awareness and decision-making under pressure. The loan spell also prepared him for future opportunities with other professional clubs as his career continued to develop.
Dunfermline Athletic
Simon Wiles moved to Dunfermline Athletic, where he experienced Scottish football for the first time. His time at the club broadened his understanding of different playing styles and tactical systems. Although his stay was relatively short, it added valuable experience to his career. Competing in another football environment strengthened his adaptability and overall knowledge of the professional game.
Barrow FC
After returning to England, Simon Wiles signed for Barrow AFC. At Barrow, he continued to contribute as an experienced midfielder while helping younger teammates. His professionalism and leadership became valuable qualities within the squad. This stage of his career also marked the beginning of his transition towards coaching, as he developed a stronger interest in player development and leadership.
Final Playing Years
During the final years of his playing career, Simon Wiles represented Chorley FC, Salford City, and Bamber Bridge. These clubs allowed him to continue competing while preparing for life beyond playing. His experience, leadership, and tactical understanding made him an important presence on and off the pitch. When he retired in 2015, he smoothly transitioned into coaching, beginning the next successful chapter of his football career.
Coaching Career
Simon Wiles successfully transitioned from professional football into coaching after retiring in 2015. Drawing on his playing experience, he developed a strong reputation for improving young players and building successful academy programmes. His coaching journey included roles at Bamber Bridge, Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, Manchester United Academy, and finally Liverpool FC. Each position expanded his leadership skills and strengthened his reputation as one of England’s promising youth coaches.
Bamber Bridge
Simon Wiles began his coaching career at Bamber Bridge, where he combined his recent playing experience with coaching responsibilities. Working closely with developing players allowed him to gain practical experience in training, match preparation, and player management. This role helped him establish the coaching foundations that supported his rapid career progression.
Blackpool Academy
Simon Wiles later joined Blackpool Academy, returning to the club where his own football journey had started. As an academy coach, he focused on developing young players’ technical ability, tactical understanding, and professional attitude. His knowledge of the club’s development pathway helped him guide talented youngsters through important stages of their football education.
Fleetwood Town
Simon Wiles continued his coaching development at Fleetwood Town, where he worked with academy players and supported their progression into senior football. His coaching methods emphasised discipline, teamwork, and intelligent decision-making. His work at Fleetwood strengthened his reputation as a coach capable of preparing young footballers for the demands of professional football.
Salford City
At Salford City, Simon Wiles became part of an ambitious coaching environment focused on long-term player development. Working alongside experienced coaching staff, he contributed to improving academy standards and developing young talent. His leadership qualities and structured coaching approach earned recognition throughout the club and further advanced his professional coaching career.
Manchester United Academy
Simon Wiles joined the Manchester United Academy, where he worked with some of England’s most promising young footballers. Coaching within one of the world’s leading academy systems expanded his experience in elite youth development. His responsibilities included technical coaching, tactical education, and supporting players’ personal growth. This role further enhanced his reputation within professional football.
Liverpool FC Under-18 Head Coach
In 2026, Simon Wiles was appointed Liverpool FC Under-18 Head Coach, succeeding Marc Bridge-Wilkinson. The appointment reflected Liverpool’s confidence in his ability to develop future first-team players. At the club’s Kirkby Academy, he leads the Under-18 programme while promoting technical excellence, tactical intelligence, and strong professional values. His appointment represents one of the most significant milestones of his coaching career.
Coaching Philosophy and Style
Simon Wiles is recognised for his modern coaching approach and strong commitment to youth development. His methods focus on improving technical ability, tactical awareness, and personal character. Having experienced professional football as both a player and coach, he understands the demands of elite competition. The following sections explain how he develops young footballers, builds tactical understanding, and creates a positive learning environment within academy football.
Player Development
Simon Wiles believes that successful player development begins with strong technical foundations and consistent learning. He encourages young footballers to improve their decision-making, ball control, passing accuracy, and confidence under pressure. Alongside football skills, he places great importance on discipline, professionalism, and personal responsibility. His coaching helps players prepare for the physical and mental demands of senior football.
Tactical Philosophy
Simon Wiles promotes an attacking style of football based on intelligent movement, possession, and teamwork. His training sessions encourage players to understand positioning, quick transitions, and effective communication on the pitch. Rather than focusing only on results, he values long-term improvement and tactical education. This balanced approach helps young players develop into adaptable footballers capable of succeeding at higher levels.
Academy Leadership
As an academy leader, Simon Wiles creates an environment where players feel challenged and supported. He works closely with coaching staff to ensure consistent development across every age group. His leadership style encourages accountability, respect, and continuous improvement. At Liverpool FC Under-18s, he combines high performance standards with individual player care, helping young footballers grow both on and off the pitch.
Achievements and Career Highlights
Simon Wiles has achieved success as both a professional footballer and an academy coach. His playing career provided valuable experience across English and Scottish football, while his coaching journey has taken him to some of the country’s leading academies. His appointment as Liverpool Under-18 Head Coach represents the biggest milestone of his coaching career and reflects his reputation within elite youth football.
Playing Achievements
During his playing career, Simon Wiles represented clubs including Blackpool, Macclesfield Town, Dunfermline Athletic, Barrow, Chorley, Salford City, and Bamber Bridge. His experience across different competitions helped him develop leadership qualities, tactical knowledge, and resilience. These achievements later became valuable assets in his coaching career.
Coaching Milestones
Simon Wiles steadily progressed through coaching roles at Bamber Bridge, Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, and Manchester United Academy. Each appointment reflected increasing responsibility and recognition. His ability to develop talented young players earned praise throughout English football and strengthened his reputation as a respected academy coach.
Liverpool Appointment
Simon Wiles reached a major career milestone when Liverpool FC appointed him as Under-18 Head Coach in 2026, replacing Marc Bridge-Wilkinson. The appointment highlighted Liverpool’s confidence in his coaching ability and player development experience. Leading one of England’s most respected academy teams positions him to help shape the next generation of Liverpool first-team footballers.
Personal Life
Simon Wiles prefers to keep his personal life private despite working in professional football. Most public information about him focuses on his playing and coaching achievements rather than his family or relationships. He rarely discusses personal matters in interviews or on social media. This privacy allows attention to remain on his work in player development and academy coaching rather than his life outside football.
Family
There is no verified public information about Simon Wiles’ parents, siblings, or wider family. He has chosen not to share these details publicly. Throughout his coaching career, he has maintained a professional image focused on football. This approach reflects the privacy followed by many academy coaches who prefer to separate their personal and professional lives.
Relationships
Simon Wiles has not publicly disclosed whether he is married or in a long-term relationship. There are no confirmed reports regarding a wife, partner, or children. Any online claims about his relationship status remain unverified. Until Simon Wiles shares such information himself, it should be regarded as private and respected accordingly.
Private Life
Away from football, Simon Wiles is known for focusing on coaching education and youth player development. He has built his reputation through hard work, leadership, and continuous learning rather than public attention. His career demonstrates a commitment to helping young footballers reach their potential while maintaining a low personal profile outside the game.
Health
Simon Wiles remains active in professional football, and there are no verified public reports of any serious illness or long-term health condition. Although injuries affected parts of his playing career, he successfully transitioned into coaching and continues to work at the highest academy level. His current role at Liverpool FC reflects his ongoing fitness, professional commitment, and ability to lead young players.
Playing Injuries
Like many professional footballers, Simon Wiles experienced injuries during his playing career. These setbacks limited parts of his time on the pitch but did not prevent him from continuing in professional football. The experience also gave him valuable insight into recovery, resilience, and player welfare, which now benefits his coaching approach.
Net Worth
Simon Wiles has earned income through both professional football and coaching. Although his exact salary has never been publicly disclosed, his long career in the game has provided stable earnings. His move into academy coaching at leading clubs has further strengthened his professional career. The following sections explain his likely income sources and provide an estimated overview of his financial profile based on publicly available information.
Coaching Salary
As a senior academy coach, Simon Wiles earns his primary income through football coaching. His roles at Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, Manchester United Academy, and Liverpool FC have provided long-term professional employment. While Liverpool does not publish academy staff salaries, experienced academy coaches at elite Premier League clubs generally receive competitive compensation based on their responsibilities and experience.
Career Earnings
Simon Wiles has generated earnings from two successful careers. His income first came from professional football, where he played for clubs including Blackpool, Macclesfield Town, Dunfermline Athletic, Barrow, Chorley, Salford City, and Bamber Bridge. He later established himself as a respected academy coach. Although no official figures exist, his estimated net worth is believed to be between $1 million and $2 million, based on his playing career, coaching positions, and long-term involvement in professional football.
Legacy
Simon Wiles has established a respected reputation through his commitment to football development and academy coaching. While his playing career provided valuable experience, his greatest impact has come through developing young footballers. His work at Manchester United Academy and Liverpool FC Academy highlights the trust placed in his coaching ability. As he continues working with elite youth players, his influence on English football is expected to grow in the coming years.
Youth Development Impact
Simon Wiles has dedicated much of his coaching career to helping young players reach professional football. His coaching focuses on technical quality, tactical understanding, discipline, and personal growth. Players working under his guidance benefit from both his playing experience and his modern coaching methods. His contribution to academy football supports the long-term development of future professional footballers.
Liverpool Future
As Liverpool Under-18 Head Coach, Simon Wiles plays an important role in preparing the club’s next generation of talent. Working within Liverpool’s respected academy system, he helps young players progress towards Under-21 and first-team football. His appointment reflects his growing reputation within English football, and he is expected to remain an influential figure in elite youth development for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Simon Wiles?
Simon Wiles is an English football coach and former professional footballer who currently serves as Liverpool FC Under-18 Head Coach.
How old is Simon Wiles?
Simon Wiles was born on 22 April 1985 and is 41 years old as of 2026.
Where was Simon Wiles born?
He was born in Preston, England.
Which position did Simon Wiles play?
He played as a right midfielder during his professional football career.
Which clubs did Simon Wiles play for?
He played for Blackpool, Macclesfield Town, Dunfermline Athletic, Barrow, Chorley, Salford City, and Bamber Bridge.
Why did Simon Wiles retire from playing?
After his playing career ended in 2015, Simon Wiles chose to focus on football coaching and youth player development.
What coaching qualifications does Simon Wiles have?
He holds a UEFA B Coaching Licence and has completed several FA Youth Modules.
Did Simon Wiles coach at Manchester United?
Yes. Simon Wiles worked at the Manchester United Academy before joining Liverpool.
What is Simon Wiles’ role at Liverpool FC?
He is the Liverpool FC Under-18 Head Coach, responsible for developing young academy players.
Is Simon Wiles married?
Simon Wiles has not publicly shared details about his marital status or personal relationships.
What is Simon Wiles’ net worth?
His estimated net worth is between $1 million and $2 million, although no official figure has been confirmed.
Does Simon Wiles have a Wikipedia page?
As of 2026, Simon Wiles does not have a dedicated Wikipedia page. His professional profile is primarily documented through official football club announcements and coaching records.
Conclusion
Simon Wiles has built an impressive football career through dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for youth development. From his early days as a professional midfielder with Blackpool and other clubs to his coaching roles at Blackpool Academy, Fleetwood Town, Salford City, Manchester United Academy, and Liverpool FC, he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and coaching ability. His appointment as Liverpool Under-18 Head Coach reflects the respect he has earned within English football. As he continues developing talented young players, Simon Wiles remains an important figure in academy football and one of the promising coaches shaping the future of the game.
