“Experience and knowledge…” – Sir Jim Ratcliffe told legend is best sporting director option for Man United

Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has called for Sir Jim Ratcliffe to hire AC Milan legend Paolo Maldin as sporting director at Old Trafford.

Ratcliffe, 71, is expected to take charge of United’s sporting department once his investment into the club is ratified.

The British billionaire is already set on making changes behind the scenes, with Richard Arnold out of the door and a new chief executive set to be recruited.

Another move that Ratcliffe will likely be making is the exit of football director John Murtough to pave the way for a top-class sporting director at the club.

Paul Mitchell has been one of many names suggested as options for the role. The former Italian defender Maldini is another name that has been mentioned.

The legendary player was AC Milan’s technical director between June 2019 and June 2023, and former Red Silvestre believes he has the attributes to succeed in the sporting director role at Old Trafford.

“Paolo Maldini has the experience and the knowledge to be good in this role. He could be a potential sporting director for Man United,” said the Frenchman when speaking to bettingexpert.com. “Because of his career and his connections and knowledge on the international level.

“Under his watch, the club won a Serie A title.

“He has been in that role in Serie A for a big club for a while, so he definitely has the experience to be in that role.”

The ex-Old Trafford defender has also urged Ratcliffe to be in contact with Sir Alex Ferguson, who would be the ‘best advisor’ for the new owner as he looks to turn things around at the club.

“Those meetings with Sir Alex should happen. Whether it’s official or unofficial,” added Silvestre.

“Sir Alex has been following the team. He’s been going to every home game. He would have an acute understanding and opinion, and he would be the best advisor for whoever comes and tries to rectify the ongoing situation.”