Manchester United have endured a chastening week off the pitch with the announcement of mass redundancies behind the scenes.
Chief executive Omar Berrada vowed ‘this cannot continue’ with Manchester United announcing measures to counter increasing losses, and attempt to improve the club’s financial footing.
Ruben Amorim was asked about this during the press conference, responding quite correctly this his task was to help by improving the club’s fortunes on the pitch.
What has been clear over the years is that Manchester United bosses need help themselves, when it comes to recruitment.
Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal both felt they were not supported adequately, while Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s comments about the club not moving for Erling Haaland showed he was not listened to either.
On the other hand, Erik ten Hag was given too much power. Manchester United are still counting the cost of heavy investments for Casemiro and Antony.
Ineos attempted to redress this by bringing in a sporting director. The Dan Ashworth era was short-lived, and his replacement has now been decided.
Manchester United keep Christopher Vivell on permanent basis
Manchester United made another significant hire in summer 2024, bringing in recruitment expert Christopher Vivell on a short-term basis.
Vivell arrived with a big reputation of landing talented players at bargain prices, including Erling Haaland at Salzburg – which saw us dub him at the time the ‘anti-Woodward’
He took on an enhanced role following Ashworth’s exit, and he has now been made a permanent member of staff at Old Trafford.
According to The Athletic, Vivell will be Manchester United’s director of recruitment, having signed to a multi-year deal.
He will report into technical director Jason Wilcox, whose scope and responsibility has increased following Ashworth’s exit.
How Ineos feel about Christopher Vivell
Christopher Vivell’s expanding scope at Manchester United speaks to the faith Ineos have placed in him to date.
United In Focus understands via Graeme Bailey that Ineos love the approach Vivell has brought to the role and made clear they wanted him to stay on a permanent basis.
Vivell had interest from other clubs, and elected to continue at United, believing he has the support and tools available to be successful in his role at Old Trafford.
Continuity helps Ruben Amorim
Christopher Vivell’s permanent deal is notable, and especially so considering the backdrop of the redundancies at Old Trafford.
It clearly helps current head coach Ruben Amorim, who has already been through his first transfer window with Vivell at the help.
United signed Patrick Dorgu, along with Ayden Heaven, in addition to a deal agreed for wonderkid Diego Leon to link up in the summer. That latter deal especially is one with the hallmarks of a Vivell move.
The continuity helps Ruben Amorim, as opposed to if another recruitment was brought in externally to replace him, who may have fresh ideas.
The timing of the decision is also vital, with United locking up an agreement with Vivell in late February, well in advance of the summer transfer window.
United can plan ahead now, with Vivell leading the club’s direction, to focus on the incomings and outgoings in the summer at first team and academy level that can drive the club forward.
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