New Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada emphasizes structure for club success

Omar Berrada, the newly appointed chief executive of Manchester United, has highlighted the importance of implementing a strong structure within the club to ensure success on the pitch. Berrada, who previously held the position of chief football operations officer at Manchester City, emphasized that sustained success is not a matter of luck but rather a result of having an efficient off-pitch system.

United announced Berrada’s arrival as part of their plan to regain their status as a title-winning club. The club’s objective is to prioritize football and on-pitch performance in all aspects of their operations. This comes shortly after the Glazer family agreed to sell 25% of the club to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who will oversee football decisions.

In an interview with the Financial Times, Berrada praised City’s success, attributing it to a well-designed structure both on and off the pitch. He stressed the importance of creating a consistent and effective ecosystem to minimize any negative impact during downward cycles.

Although Berrada’s move to Manchester United was only recently confirmed, he already had substantial experience, having contributed to City’s achievement of annual revenues of £712m in the 2022/23 season, surpassing United’s £648m. He believes that on-pitch success plays a vital role in driving commercial growth for football clubs, particularly when combined with a strong business strategy.

Omar Berrada’s appointment as CEO highlights Manchester United’s determination to establish a successful structure as a foundation for long-term prosperity. By focusing on building a robust system, the club aims to ensure that any downturns are limited in duration. Berrada’s extensive background in football operations and his proven track record at City indicate that he is well-equipped to lead United towards a successful future.