'Shambles' - Liverpool legend livid after ex-Bristol Rovers coach denied glamorous job

Former Liverpool and England defender Jamie Carragher has reacted after ex-Bristol Rovers boss Andy Mangan was denied the opportunity to take a coaching job at Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The 38-year-old was in talks to join the coaching staff at the 15-time Champions League winners. He studied alongside their assistant manager Davide Ancelotti as the pair earned their UEFA coaching badges with the Welsh football association (FAW) and that led to them forming a friendship.

According to various media outlets including the BBC, the move is now off after his work permit was rejected. The application, which could have taken nine months to process, has been rejected by the Spanish government, and so the move will not take place.

Jamie Carragher, who is a leading pundit for Sky Sports’ coverage of the Premier League, shared his disappointment at Mangan missing out on what would have been the opportunity of a life time. According to the Guardian, the permit application was rejected because of Brexit regulations.

In a Twitter post shared on Wednesday morning, he said: "Chance of a lifetime lost for a young English coach, but he’s got a blue passport so I’m sure he’ll get over it. #BrexitShambles.”

Twelve months ago, Mangan was assistant coach at Bristol Rovers, and working under Joey Barton. He took on his job when Barton was dismissed at the end of October, and had a successful spell as caretaker manager, with just one defeat in seven games.

Sam Finley, then club captain, went public in his backing in wanting to see Mangan land the top job, but the Gas board instead appointed Matt Taylor. Mangan has since worked as a coach to Rovers’ League One rivals Stockport County.