Manchester United CEO Discusses Future Plans and Managerial Confidence
Poor Season Leads to New Strategies
Following start of the most disappointing seasons in its history, Manchester United is working diligently to find a way forward. Despite the club’s struggles in the Premier League, manager Rúben Amorim has been granted another season to rebuild the team in his vision and turn their fortunes around. In an interview with The Athletic, CEO Omar Brada expressed the club’s commitment to Amorim and provided insights into various aspects concerning the team’s future, including recruitment, economic challenges, and ambitious goals set for 2028, commemorating the club’s 150th anniversary.
Managerial Confidence and Future Goals
Addressing the status of Amorim, Brada stated, “It was clear that appointing a manager midway through the season would make it even harder for the team to perform.” He emphasized that the decision to retain Amorim was viewed as an investment for the upcoming years, allowing him time to familiarize himself with the team and the Premier League. Brada noted that they are initiating a two-to-three-year plan designed to prepare the team for potential Premier League victories.
When questistartd about the similarities between Amorim’s struggles and those of Pep Guardiola during his first year at Manchester City, Brada acknowledged the parallels. He noted, “There are significant similarities. Pep stuck to his principles, and the club backed him in that summer, leading to a winning streak that continued into the following seasons.”
“Project 150”: Ambitions for the Future
Since his appointment, Brada has established what he refers to as “Project 150,” outlining the objectives the club aims to achieve by 2028. This includes numerous targets, with a primary focus on securing the first championship title for the women’s team, alongside winning the Premier League title within the next three years. On the feasibility of these goals, Brada remarked, “Of course, finishing 15th seems impossible, but why not aim for it? I genuinely believe we can achieve this. We have 2-3 summer windows to elevate the squad to a Premier League-winning level.”
Strengthening the Squad Through Recruitment
Regarding player recruitment, Brada assured that Manchester United would be “active” in the transfer market and would emerge from the window “much stronger than before.” He praised their first signing, Matheus Cunha, stating, “Fans will love him. He possesses technical skills, plays in three positions, scores, assists, and he’s got a swagger that fans will enjoy, reminiscent of Eric Cantona.”
Financial Challenges and Organizational Restructuring
Brada addressed the current economic state of the club, revealing a grim understanding of the financial situation in prior years. “We are a massive club and should be able to operate on the basis of our revenues, as we have historically.” He believes it is possible to achieve success both on and off the pitch simultaneously, despite ongoing cutbacks affecting hundreds of club employees.
As Manchester United prepares for a crucial season ahead, there is palpable optimism surrounding the potential of a fresh start under Amorim’s leadership. The club’s ambitious goals and investment in its future aim to revive its storied success in the world of football