Omar Berrada officially started his job as the new CEO of Manchester United this Saturday.
The Moroccan is making his way to Old Trafford from neighbouring Manchester City, following a gardening leave period confirmed back in January. The 46-year-old is now set to be held accountable to Ineos sporting chief executive, Jean-Claude Blanc.
The appointment comes after Richard Arnold stepped down from his position at the club in November 2023, although he remained a member of the board until submitting his resignation on February 15 this year. This decision was made once the deal with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos’ investment in the club was formalized.
And confirmation of Omar Berrada’s role has been officially announced via a LinkedIn post, expressing his anticipation to help boost the footballing and commercial aspects of Manchester United.
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Berradas entrance signifies a change in the Old Trafford strategy as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group aim to return United to their former glory days. Back in June, while in Barcelona, Berrada emphasized the necessity for fresh structuring at United, whilst also advocating against overspending in the transfer market.
Marc Guerrero commented on LinkedIn: “It was a pleasure to meet Manchester United’s appointed new CEO, Omar Berrada (one of the most experienced football executives at the top of European football) at the sidelines of EU Business School commencement ceremony.”
Specifically recognizing his prior position, Guerrero wrote: “Berrada arrives to the United after being chief football operations officer (COO) at Manchester City Football Club.”
“For him, implementing the correct structure at the club is key to the team’s success. He also warns overpaying clubs, players and agents in the transfer market can lead to teams finding themselves on a ‘slippery slope’.”
Liverpool.com says: Manchester United is Liverpool’s biggest rival, and it is fascinating to watch from afar as the club undergoes a transformation. Over the past few years, Liverpool have been miles ahead of the Red Devils both on and off the pitch.
But under the new ownership of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, those at Old Trafford are trying to change that. Berrada’s arrival is the latest step in that journey, and those at Anfield will be watching developments with their rivals with interest.