Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s potential acquisition of a 25 per cent stake in Manchester United signals a strategic shift towards revolution rather than mere evolution, which is already evident in the structural reforms underway.Although the stake is yet to be officially ratified, approvals from the Premier League and the FA are imminent, with the final formalities expected to conclude next week. Ratcliffe and his Ineos team are orchestrating an extensive audit of the club, led by former British Cycling head Sir Dave Brailsford. Significant personnel changes have already been secured, including the sensational poaching of Omar Berrada from Manchester City to serve as the club’s new CEO, alongside the prospective appointment of Dan Ashworth from Newcastle United as the new sporting director.Will there be a New Old Trafford or just a Renewed Old Trafford?Ratcliffe will value trophies ahead of cash at Man UtdThese moves, occurring even before Ratcliffe and Brailsford have established a physical presence at the Carrington training base, underscore the commitment to structural reform. Rather than an immediate splurge on player acquisitions, Ratcliffe’s emphasis on long-term cultural change is evident. Plans to transform Old Trafford into the “Wembley of the North” reinforce this vision, signalling a decade-long endeavour aimed at the club’s enduring growth.🚨 Dan Ashworth has already said yes to Manchester United. He’s prepared to accept their proposal as it’s considered big opportunity & project.Understand Man United are intentioned to negotiate and pay compensation to Newcastle; they absolutely want Ashworth now, not in 2025. pic.twitter.com/Ka2pHQzFnh— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 15, 2024 The formation of a three-man committee comprising Ratcliffe, Brailsford, and Joel Glazer to oversee football matters underscores the seriousness of the endeavour. Brailsford has identified United as a “performance challenge,” emphasising the need for comprehensive transformation. The pursuit of Ashworth, renowned for his expertise in restructuring transfer departments and club operations, reflects the ambitious approach. While negotiations are yet to commence officially, the complexity of negotiations, including substantial compensation demands from Newcastle, looms ahead.##NAJAVA_MECA_7881218##Ratcliffe and Ineos are prepared to invest significantly in securing Ashworth, recognising his pivotal role in kickstarting the Old Trafford revolution. Plans to overhaul the scouting department and appoint a head of recruitment to make them more efficient in the transfer market.Discussions regarding individual player signings have been muted, indicating a departure from previous spending patterns. Instead, the focus remains on structural enhancements, with Ratcliffe and Ineos acknowledging that transformative change transcends big-money acquisitions.Manchester United isn’t the best team in the world – but it is the most expensive squad ever assembledCritics may question Brailsford’s transition from cycling to football management, but the strategic collaboration with Ashworth and Berrada’s track record instils confidence in the club’s direction. United are forced to play catch-up behind local rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and others. Making small steps is out of the question in 2024.
