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Rob dawsonCorrespondent
Manchester United have appointed John Murtough as the club’s first director of football and Darren Fletcher as its first manager.
Murtough has been promoted from head of football development, while former Scottish international Fletcher rejoined the club in January as part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s backroom staff.
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According to United, Murtough, who has been at Old Trafford for seven years after being hired by David Moyes, “will have overall leadership and responsibility for operations and strategy across all football functions.”
Meanwhile, Fletcher “will add technical information and direction to all areas of soccer and performance and focus on a coordinated, long-term approach to player and squad development.”
“These are extremely important appointments that reinforce the progress we have been making as a club in recent years in our relentless pursuit of success,” said Executive Vice President Ed Woodward.
“We have already made great strides in the way we conduct our soccer operations, and the benefits are visible in the resurgence of academy talents reaching the first team and through our best recruiting record.
“John has been an integral part of our progress in these areas and his deep understanding of development ensures that the club’s traditions of bringing young players from the academy to the first team will continue.
“This new position is a natural evolution that takes advantage of his leadership qualities and his years of experience in the game.
“Darren’s stellar achievements as a player and his own journey from academia to Premier League to Champions League winner mean that he naturally inspires respect and understands this vital part of the club’s DNA.
“In this new position, the first in our history, he will provide technical advice in all aspects of the football department, in addition to contributing to the communication and delivery of our football philosophy in all areas of the club.”
Murtough, who will report to Woodward, will play a key role in recruiting United, overseeing the scouting network and team of data analysts, although the club has made it clear that Solskjaer will maintain his central role in buying and selling players. Matt Judge has received a new title of Director of Football Negotiations.
“This is a very exciting time for everyone at Manchester United, with the first team, the academy and the women’s team performing well and much development to come,” Murtough said.
“It is a privilege to be part of that process and an honor to lead Manchester United’s football department, working alongside Ole, [women’s team manager] Casey [Stoney] and many other truly outstanding staff members, all dedicated to making this club successful. “
Fletcher made 342 appearances for United after graduating from the academy, winning five Premier League titles.
After passing through West Bromwich Albion and Stoke, Solskjaer’s former teammate, 37, has been helping the Norwegian since January before his promotion.
“It is great to be back with the club and I am delighted to take on this new role,” said Fletcher.
“We are moving in the right direction and I look forward to working with Ole and his team of coaches, and now with John as football director, to help young players enter and further develop the football side of the club.”
“It is fantastic to see that all the staff here are propelling Manchester United into a new era of success.”
