Explaining the role of Man United’s new Director of Football Operations

Manchester United have appointed David Harrison as their new Director of Football Operations.

“David Harrison has been appointed Director of Football Operations at Manchester United, to lead all operational aspects of the club’s football activities,” a club statement read. “He joins from Everton, where he held the same role for the Merseyside club.

“David will report to John Murtough, Football Director, and be based at the Carrington Training Centre, with responsibility for ensuring that our football operations run as smoothly and effectively as possible.”

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Now, there was an initial confusion among fans, who rightly stated that Manchester United already employ a Football Director, John Murtough. He works alongside Darren Fletcher who is the club’s Technical Director.

So, what will new recruit David Harrison actually do for Manchester United?

The main role Harrison will play is surrounding football administration. Harrison won’t have much of an impact on footballing matters such as signings, but will instead take care of other roles such as making sure that the club’s administration matters such as squad lists are all in order.

He also plays an incredibly important role in relation to player support, as well as directing matters related to team travel, with Manchester United being a club that travels often, both nationally and internationally. This goes not just for the men’s team, but also the women’s and academy teams, too.

This role will no doubt be vital during pre-season especially.

As mentioned in the above statement, Harrison joined the club from Everton, where he operated in the same role – He will work under John Murtough and with Darren Fletcher.

“David is known as one of the most able and respected operators in football and we are delighted that he has chosen to join Manchester United,” Murtough said on the appointment. “He will bring deep experience and knowledge to this important role, and add further strength to the support structure we are building around our football teams, to give our players and staff the best chance of success.”