Former Manchester City and Mansfield Town footballer Jonathan D’Laryea takes over football academy

A former Manchester City Player has opened a football academy for children in the area.

Former Manchester City Player and current Newark and Sherwood United manager Jonathan D’Laryea, has become the new owner of local Children’s football academies, Kixx Newark and Ollerton.

D'Laryea said he aims to help make a difference in the lives of children in the community.

The children at the academies can now look forward to being coached by a player who made his professional debut against Arsenal in the League Cup, on the same day as Premier League legend Robin Van Persie.

D’Laryea is no stranger to football in Nottinghamshire, having made over 150 appearances for Mansfield Town.

He is also a teacher and is currently teaching mathematics at a secondary school in Ashfield.

Jonathan said about his takeover of the Kixx Academies:

“First and foremost I am delighted to become the franchisee for Kixx Newark and Ollerton.

“I have been involved in football all my life and have learned so much in my career.

"When the opportunity came to become the franchisee, it felt like the time was right to help the next generation and be involved in a business that does so much good, not just locally but across the UK.

“My goal is to help make a huge difference to the lives of children in Newark and the surrounding areas," said D'Laryea.

"My team will be giving our all, every single day, and our children deserve no less than our best.

“The previous owners did a truly wonderful job in building this academy and it is already having such a positive impact in the area.

“It’s my job to continue and build on this work and I’m truly excited to do what I can for my community.”

Kixx Newark and Ollerton was formally owned by Former Professional Footballer, Liam King, who also owns Kixx Mansfield and Kixx Nottingham.