Richard Arnold’s departure will come after a year of uncertainty about the club’s future ownership, with an announcement on that front expected next week as reported by Sky.
Billionaire businessman Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already begun implementing alterations in lead up to the completion of his purchase of 25% of Manchester United. Ratcliffe, who heads the INEOS group, has been given full control of football operations at Manchester United and is excited to make widespread changes including changes to the current director of football role.
When Arnold does depart, it would continue the proposed changes under the new ownership. Ratcliffe has already through media, set rumours on replacing John Murtough director of football Paul Mitchell. More high-level shifts could be on the horizon as Ratcliffe aims to install his vision and trusted lieutenants throughout the organization.
United fans are hopeful that Ratcliffe’s investment and management expertise, combined with a reworking of the leadership roles, can help the club finally emerge from its recent troubles. But significant rebuilding work is still required on and off the field. Only time will tell if Ratcliffe’s strategy can return United to the top of English and European football.
