Since INEOS chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe took over at Manchester United, there have been many changes at the club. One of the most notable changes has been in the club’s transfer strategy according to The Sun. With manager Erik ten Hag’s future at the club in some doubt after a disappointing end to the league season and some misfired transfers, the new strategy is intended to breathe life into the ailing club.
This article by Sports Buddy will look at the possible positives and negatives of this and what it could mean for Manchester United’s quest to return to the glory days.
The 25-Year Age Limit for New Transfers
By targeting younger players of 25 years or less, there is a huge amount of youth and vibrancy which can inject into the team. Younger players tend to command lower salaries and smaller transfer fees as well, so it makes sense from a financial perspective too. Additionally, any player you buy under 25 will have many good years in the game ahead of them, so you are investing in them for the longer term.
Consequently, the lack of opportunity to buy experienced leaders who know the pressures of playing for a big club and can help to guide some of the younger players may hurt the club in the longer term. There are times in a season when a cool head or a experienced player who has been there and done that can make a huge difference. A team needs a balance of youth and experience, and this policy could upset that balance.
No Galacticos Policy
By not targeting big-money “Galactico” signings, the club avoids the temptation to overspend on players who may not suit the system or the club. This should lead to a more balanced and better functioning squad, with players who harmonise together as a team rather than a bunch of individuals looking to justify their massive wages. Also, it reduces the risk of a big-money signing not working out.
In reverse, the lack of star names may mean a lack of a global draw for the products that the club wants to market. Some players command huge commercial interests and can act as inspirational figures both to the team and the supporters. This policy may leave United struggling against clubs who are not afraid to spend on big names.
Style of Play Set by Technical Director Jason Wilcox
A defined style of play means that there is a consistency at the club with everything geared towards fitting players into this style. The Technical Director will target players in the transfer market who suit this style, and any manager employed will be expected to work within this framework.
This should lead to a more consistent approach to team strategy, improved player development and a stronger identity for the club. It also means there should be less disruption between managers as any successor would continue the same style.
Consequently, reducing the manager’s control over the playing style may cause unrest and inflexibility towards certain tactical decisions depending on the game. The manager might feel like he is not in control and cannot express his tactical vision fully which would decrease his performance and happiness.
Manager’s Role in Identifying Positions, Not Players
By giving the manager the freedom to choose which positions he wants to reinforce instead of picking players, the recruitment process is faster and the team’s structure is kept in mind first and foremost. This way the squad might become more balanced and address the actual weaknesses.
In retrospect, this way could restrict the manager’s freedom of choosing players that fit into his tactical system and the overall playing style. Very often certain players are needed to implement the vision and this policy might prevent the manager from creating the team he truly wants.
INEOS Providing a List of Three Players
INEOS can keep full control over the transfer budget and make sure all signings make sense in terms of the long term vision of the project. The list of three players per position can accelerate the transfer window as less time is spent on negotiations and scouting targets.
Although this policy might limit the manager’s decisions and he might not be happy with the options provided as they might not fit into his tactical requirements or personal preferences or he may miss out on targets that could be ideal but were not on the list of three.
Overall Impact on Manchester United’s Ambition
The new transfer policy with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS can introduce stability, long term vision and a clear plan for the team. Investing in youth, avoiding needless spending and keeping a consistent playing style can be the foundation for future successes. If executed properly, these policies can help Manchester United to regain their former glory by creating a squad that grows together and competes at the highest level for many years to come.
On the other hand, the restrictive policies might cause unrest between the board and the coaching staff and affect the team’s performance. Lack of experienced signings and the absence of big players could prevent an immediate challenge for the top and for the club to compete with the best European sides.
The balance between the long term vision and short term achievements will determine if the changes will send Manchester United back to the top of English and even European football.
Conclusion
To sum up, the new Manchester United transfer policy with INEOS is a brave change in the way the club operates with an aim of sustainable success. It might bring many positives and guarantee a promising future but it has to be executed wisely and with a level of flexibility to assure the club’s ambitions are met without the need to compromise on competitiveness in the present.
