Man Utd looking like brand new club already thanks to Ineos

Jacque Talbot

• 20 Feb 2024 18:20 GMT
• 3 min read

Let's be real - Ineos' recent partial takeover of Manchester United did not exactly receive a resounding endorsement, especially considering the backdrop of the Qatari-backed group stepping away from the process.

While the majority of fans were hoping for change, in particular a complete removal of the Glazers, they felt that Sir Jim Ratcliffe would be nothing more than a shill to their majority investors.

But despite it being just a minority stake, the move has felt huge - a rejuvenation sweeps through the club, and it's expressing itself on the pitch. The strategic decisions being executed are proving to be astute - nothing like the Man Utd of old.

The high-profile acquisition of Dan Ashworth from Newcastle, which will no doubt be ratified, serves as a testament to the positive developments taking place behind closed doors. Why would Ashworth leave defect from Newcastle? One can only assume the project on offer elsewhere is far more compelling and ambitious. His arrival speaks volumes about the intentions of Man Utd’s new hierarchy: they want the best there is and won’t settle for less.

A critical examination of Man Utd recruitment over the past decade will only conclude them to be Europe's worst in this regard. Out of approximately 100 players brought in since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, Bruno Fernandes stands out as the lone figure who arguably more than justifies the price paid for his services. The historical modus operandi of the Glazers, neglect of the club and haphazard, and well-informed financial decisions, is well-documented. But now dawns a new era, where seasoned backroom staff are being enlisted, and this will no doubt instill fear in Premier League rivals.

Ineos have grabbed the wheel, swung in the opposite direction, and now appear to be steering Man Utd towards a trajectory that contrasts with the tactics of the previous regime. The focus extends beyond immediate first-team needs - ideas are for both the here and now.

While there is no denying that the club has a mountain to climb, players still on the books on high wages who shouldn’t be, and access provided to reporters that it is unprecedented, the early signs of change are already palpable. Things are starting to take shape, even after eight weeks or so.

It will take time but it won’t be as long as people think. Man Utd will be back to their title-challenging test in a matter of years, though this may mean that one Erik ten Hag needs upgrading.