Manchester United’s owners, Joel and Avram Glazer, recently attended the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup in Barcelona, where they also held a board-level meeting to discuss the club. This meeting, which included key figures such as Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Sir Dave Brailsford, Jean-Claude Blanc, Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth, and Jason Wilcox, provided an opportunity to reflect on the summer transfer window and the team’s performance in the new season.
The Glazer brothers’ presence at the sailing event may seem unusual, but it highlights their commitment to exploring new ideas and seeking inspiration from other successful ventures. The parallel between the Glazers’ ownership of Manchester United and INEOS Britannia’s performance in the America’s Cup is worth noting. Both teams had a mixed start but finished strong, demonstrating the importance of resilience and momentum in achieving success.
At the same time, concerns have arisen within the club regarding the team’s midfield. The 3-0 loss to Liverpool highlighted the recurring issue of midfield gaps, raising questions about the players and the instructions they are receiving. This problem has persisted from the previous season, leading some to believe that there may be systemic issues that need to be addressed in training.
Despite these concerns, there is a consensus among the club’s top executives, including CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, that manager Erik ten Hag should be supported. The club made signings during the summer transfer window based on Ten Hag’s influence, and three new coaches were brought in under his guidance. There is recognition of improved pressing in certain games, and the team’s expected goals figure indicates that they have created scoring opportunities, but finishing has been an issue.
Ashworth, known for his methodical approach, has been instrumental in stabilizing the club’s football operations since his arrival. He has focused primarily on transfers but is now expanding his scope of work. His appointment has brought a sense of professionalism and stability to Manchester United.
The decision on Ten Hag’s future ultimately lies with the ownership, specifically Ratcliffe, Joel Glazer, and Brailsford. However, they heavily rely on recommendations from those on the ground, such as Berrada, Ashworth, and Wilcox. The involvement of individuals like Brailsford, who has a background in elite performance from cycling, ensures that there is a balance of challenge and support within the decision-making process.
The recent appointments and restructuring within the club reflect a concerted effort to strengthen the football operations. Sam Erith, the newly appointed performance director, brings a wealth of experience from his time at Manchester City and the New York Knicks. His arrival signals a focus on player performance and science, complementing the club’s goal of continuous improvement.
While the new leadership team is still in the early stages of working together, there is a clear emphasis on good communication and accountability. Daily meetings via Microsoft Teams have facilitated progress in multiple transfer deals. The collaborative approach has allowed United to execute several transactions effectively.
Overall, there is a sense of optimism within the club’s hierarchy regarding Ten Hag’s leadership. The owners and top executives firmly believe in his abilities and are committed to supporting him in every aspect of his role. With a talented group of individuals overseeing the football operations, Manchester United aims to build stability and success on and off the pitch.
In conclusion, the Glazer brothers’ presence at the America’s Cup in Barcelona highlights their commitment to seeking inspiration and exploring new ideas for Manchester United. Despite concerns about the team’s midfield gaps, there is a consensus among the club’s top executives to support manager Erik ten Hag. The recent appointments and restructuring within the club, including the arrival of performance director Sam Erith, reflect a concerted effort to strengthen the football operations. With a collaborative and methodical approach, Manchester United aims to achieve stability and success under Ten Hag’s leadership.