In a whirlwind week at Old Trafford, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s peculiar decision-making processes have left a managerial candidate bewildered during an already tumultuous hiring procedure at Manchester United. The dramatic dismissal of former manager Ruben Amorim on Monday has left the footballing world awash with speculation regarding the leadership under the watchful eyes of Ratcliffe and INEOS.
The decision to part ways with the Portuguese tactician, amid his power struggles with sporting director Jason Wilcox, was revealed earlier by Ben Jacobs, a former CBS Sports pundit. Jacobs took to social media platform X to unravel the club’s justification: “Manchester United did not see enough evolution under Amorim, despite no outright power struggles or ultimatums. Nevertheless, a breakdown in relations with Wilcox signalled the end of his tenure.”
Hopes were initially high among Manchester United supporters, who believed the takeover by Ratcliffe and his INEOS consortium might steer the club towards renewed prosperity, following years of mediocrity under the Glazer family since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure. However, finishing 15th in the league and missing European competition entirely has underscored persisting issues.
Miguel Delaney, writing for The Independent, delves into the bizarre hiring journey that has candidates jumping through hoops—a bonanza of four separate interview stages involving numerous ‘decision makers’. A candidate remarked on this extensive ordeal and the formulaic nature of questioning. Furthermore, the final pitch to Ratcliffe was delayed as the billionaire was reportedly “off cycling”.
Colleagues of Ratcliffe paint a picture of a meddlesome figure: “He’s a nightmare to work with, showing typical billionaire arrogance by believing success in one area translates to football prowess. It’s an exercise in micromanagement, never relinquishing control.”
As Manchester United moves to appoint a new head coach rather than a traditional manager to work within their collaborative model, the club’s journey through the recruitment process appears as winding and arduous as some of Ratcliffe’s cycling routes.