Manchester United executives Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada continue to receive the support of Sir Jim Ratcliffe despite their capabilities facing intense scrutiny. The club head into the international break in the drop zone, and speculation suggests that Michael Carrick will be relieved of his duties this week, with both senior figures endorsing his departure.
Yet Carrick and the squad's difficulties have highlighted problems that extend considerably deeper within the club. Amongst these is whether Berrada and Wilcox are suitable for their positions given their prior experience and resulting choices on the red half of Manchester.
Ratcliffe backs senior figures
They will have contributed to United potentially installing a third different manager in charge within a calendar year should Carrick be dismissed. However, despite their judgement evidently hampering the club, the Telegraph indicates that Ratcliffe has no intention of dismissing them from their positions.
Wilcox and Berrada are anticipated to meet Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday as part of a gathering for Ineos's senior personnel. It had been scheduled well in advance but the circumstances at Old Trafford mean Carrick's prospects will take centre stage.
Pressure over poor campaign
The United hierarchy, namely Wilcox and Berrada, have faced mounting criticism from supporters and pundits owing to the Red Devils' woeful campaign - which has delivered merely one victory from their 10 Premier League fixtures.
Lisandro Martinez also went so far as to publicly challenge Wilcox following their defeat to Atletico Madrid, alleging he had failed to strengthen the squad adequately. Wilcox in his capacity as director of football has been lambasted for the club's recruitment with chief executive Berrada ultimately supervising the daily football operations at the club.
Appointments under scrutiny
Ratcliffe appointed Berrada and Wilcox after assuming command of the football department when he purchased a significant minority shareholding from the Glazers in 2024. Berrada was recruited following his achievements at Manchester City, where he had witnessed his standing grow.
It was at City that Berrada became acquainted with Wilcox, who served as the club's academy director before departing to become director of football at Southampton. He remained there 14 months before joining United, initially as technical director.
Amongst the questionable decisions that have prompted condemnation of the duo is the support, and subsequent dismissal, of Erik ten Hag. They appointed Ruben Amorim despite his approach being incompatible with the club and chose to grant Carrick the position permanently this summer, despite clear reservations regarding his previous credentials and the broader factors that influenced his interim achievements.
