Manchester United’s anticipated acquisition of highly-rated football director Julian Ward, as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s hierarchy reformation, appears to have hit a snag. Despite initial speculation linking the former Liverpool chief with a move to Old Trafford under the INEOS banner, United has reportedly faced disappointment.
The timing of Ratcliffe’s organizational overhaul remains uncertain, but there’s definite momentum towards recruiting several high-profile figures into a revamped football structure.
Omar Berrada, currently with Manchester City, is slated to assume the position of United’s new chief executive ahead of the upcoming summer. His immediate involvement is expected to be pivotal.
In his initial transfer window, Berrada’s influence is likely to extend across various domains, given the prolonged search for a sporting director, technical director, and performance director by the Red Devils.
Dan Ashworth has surfaced as Ratcliffe’s preferred choice for the role of sporting director. However, his transition is on hold due to ongoing gardening leave obligations at Newcastle United.
As the Three Lions gear up for this summer’s Euro 2024 tournament, fans can anticipate the release of the latest Nike home and away kits.
Southampton’s Jason Wilcox is reportedly a more feasible target for the technical director position. His prospective collaboration with Berrada and Ashworth is anticipated.
While candidates for the performance director position at Old Trafford remain uncertain, speculation suggests a potential return to club football in Manchester for Julian Ward.
Despite efforts to expedite the restructuring process, United is unlikely to have its revamped football operations team fully assembled in time for the summer transfer window.