Manchester United explain why Omar Berrada has been appointed as chief executive from Man City
20.01.2024 - 22:57
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Manchester United insist they are determined to "put football and performance on the pitch back at the heart of everything we do" amid the appointment of Omar Berrada as their new chief executive.
It emerged on Saturday evening Berrada, the chief football operations officer at Manchester City, would cross the divide to replace former United chief executive Richard Arnold.
United sources say the appointment was made by co-chairmen Joel and Avram Glazer in consultation with Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the Ineos Group awaits regulatory approval for its 25% stake in the club.
Ineos expect to receive approval in early-mid February and Ratcliffe wanted a new chief executive in place as soon as the investment of £1.3billion is completed.
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The bullish choice of Berrada, who joined City in 2013, is a departure from the choices of Arnold and his predecessor Ed Woodward, who were time-served Glazer loyalists.
In a crowdpleasing statement that appears to reflect Ineos's desire to engage more closely with supporters than the aloof Glazers, United stated their goal is that "United fans can see, in the words of Sir Matt Busby, the red flag flying high at the summit of English, European and world football.
"The club is determined to put football and performance on the pitch back at the heart of everything we do. Omar’s appointment represents the first step on this journey.
"As one of the most experienced football executives at the top of European football, Omar brings a wealth of football and commercial expertise, with a proven record of successful leadership and a passion to help lead change across the club. He is currently