Old Trafford plan and recruitment change – how INEOS have improved Manchester United in 100 days

As the countdown to the summer transfer window ticks away, today marks a significant milestone: 100 days since the official announcement of the agreement between Manchester United and Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Following a protracted takeover saga that seemed endless, the deal was finally sealed in February, with United issuing a statement confirming Ratcliffe’s acquisition of 25 per cent of the club’s shares.

In assuming his role as co-owner of Manchester United, Ratcliffe articulated a profound sense of responsibility and ambition. “To become co-owner of Manchester United is a great honor and comes with great responsibility,” he declared. “This marks the completion of the transaction, but just the beginning of our journey to take Manchester United back to the top of English, European, and world football.”

100 days into Ratcliffe’s tenure, the wheels are in motion for a transformative summer at Old Trafford. With Ineos now at the helm of football operations, the focus shifts towards reshaping the squad and charting the course for the club’s future under the stewardship of Erik ten Hag.

Reflecting on this milestone, MEN Sport highlights four positive changes initiated by Ratcliffe and Ineos since assuming control of Manchester United:

1. **Revamping the Leadership**: Even before settling into their roles, Ratcliffe and Ineos recognized the urgent need to appoint individuals with the right expertise and insight to drive the club forward. Omar Berrada was swiftly appointed as the new chief executive, bringing a wealth of experience to the role. Similarly, Jason Wilcox joined from Southampton as technical director, reinforcing the club’s football structure. The pursuit of Dan Ashworth as sporting director underscores Ratcliffe’s commitment to assembling a world-class management team.

2. **Revitalizing Old Trafford**: Despite its storied history, Old Trafford is in dire need of rejuvenation. Ratcliffe, however, has set his sights on a more ambitious goal: the construction of a new stadium on the existing site. In March, he spearheaded the formation of a task force, chaired by Lord Sebastian Coe and featuring the esteemed Gary Neville, to explore options for modernizing the iconic venue. This initiative signals Ratcliffe’s determination to ensure that Old Trafford remains a beacon of excellence for generations to come.

3. **Investing in Youth Development**: Recognizing the importance of nurturing young talent, Ratcliffe and Ineos are committed to bolstering the club’s youth academy. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and implementing best practices in talent development, they aim to cultivate the next generation of Manchester United stars. This renewed focus on youth development aligns with Ratcliffe’s vision of building a sustainable and successful future for the club.

4. **Enhancing Community Engagement**: Beyond the confines of the pitch, Ratcliffe is keen to strengthen Manchester United’s ties with the local community. Through initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility, the club seeks to make a positive impact beyond football. By harnessing the collective power of its fan base and stakeholders, Manchester United aims to be a force for good both on and off the field.

As the countdown to the new season gathers pace, the winds of change are blowing through Old Trafford. With Ratcliffe at the helm and Ineos driving the club forward, Manchester United is poised for a new era of success and resurgence.