Outgoing Manchester United chief executive Richard Arnold has already stressed to Sir Jim Ratcliffe the importance of working closely with the club's fans.
Arnold, 52, has been at the club since 2007 and stepped up to replace Ed Woodward as CEO in February 2022. It was confirmed on Wednesday that he would be leaving Old Trafford after 16 years, although he will remain in his post until December to provide "transitional support". United board member Patrick Stewart will replace him on an interim basis.
The departure of Arnold is the first of many changes that are expected to be implemented by Ratcliffe. The Ineos chief, 71, will assume control of all sporting operations once his proposal for a 25 per cent stake in the club is ratified.
While Ratcliffe's deal will provide United with fresh investment and a fresh voice, it's hardly the clean break that the fanbase wanted from the Glazers: the American family who have owned the club since completing a leveraged buyout back in 2005.
Fans have staged several protests against the current regime during Arnold's stint at the club - and he stressed the importance of forging a strong relationship with the Old Trafford faithful to Ratcliffe and all other prospective investors last December.
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Speaking at a United fans’ forum last year, Arnold said: “We will be advising any prospective new investors on the value of the fan engagement processes we have built in recent years, and recommending that they continue to be strengthened.”
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Richard Arnold will leave Man United in December, with prospective club co-owner Jim Ratcliffe poised to appoint a new CEO (Eamonn and James Clarke)While Arnold went out on to admit that it was "uncertain" whether the process would lead to a full takeover or partial investment, he was "confident" that the outcome would be a positive one for the entire club.
Arnold was lauded for his "outstanding service" to the club by co-chairman Joel Glazer when news of his impending departure was confirmed on Wednesday. He said: “I would like to thank Richard for his outstanding service to Manchester United over the past 16 years and wish him all the best for his future endeavours.
“We are fortunate to be able to call on the deep knowledge and experience of Patrick Stewart to provide interim stability and continuity as we embark on a search for a new permanent CEO.”
Arnold also commented on the decision, adding in a club statement: “It has been an incredible privilege to serve this great football club for the past 16 years.
“Through highs and lows, the constant has been the dedication of our employees and fans. I would like to thank all of them for their loyalty and commitment, and wish everyone associated with the club the very best for the future.”
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