After Omar Berrada’s departure from City to take up a role as the CEO at Manchester United it seems that Manchester City’s arch-rivals are planning their rejuvenation with the world champions as their role model. After Omar Berrada’s departure, a new report links Manchester United with a move for another former City staff member.
A report from David Ornstein for the Athletic indicates that Manchester City’s arch-rivals have their eyes on current Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox in a key role as they rebuild the club. Wilcox spent 9 years at Manchester City and resigned from his role as City’s academy director in January 2023. He departed the world champions for a bigger role at Southampton. Wilcox played a role in unearthing players such as Phil Foden, Oscar Bobb and Rico Lewis for the treble winners.
United’s move to rebuild their off-field hierarchy with the treble winner’s staff and ex-staff speaks volumes about City’s position in the game. They have become the dominant club in England. City’s set-up is the envy of many clubs both domestically and across football. It is no surprise to see clubs attempting to hire City staff. Their knowledge of the elite environment at City could be of great use to a club looking to rebuild or challenge Manchester City.
But Manchester City’s arch-rivals’ off-field moves also highlight another point. The current European champions have moved past their neighbours on and off the pitch. It is a notion that wouldn’t have been contemplated 20-25 years ago. But now it has become a reality as Manchester United strive to catch up to Manchester City.
They say imitation is the best form of flattery. United’s move to remodel their club with ex-City staff is the ultimate compliment to the world champions.
