Omar Berrada: The Visionary Football Executive Shaping Manchester United’s Future

Introduction

In the world of modern football, where the lines between business and sport are increasingly blurred, few names carry as much influence behind the scenes as Omar Berrada. Known for his sharp strategic mind and ability to balance financial growth with on-field success, Berrada has carved out a career that spans some of the biggest names in European football. From his early experiences at FC Barcelona to his influential role at Manchester City, and now as the Chief Executive Officer of Manchester United, his journey reflects the transformation of football into a truly global enterprise.

This article delves into his life, career, and the vision he brings to one of the world’s most famous football clubs.

Early Life and Education

Parisian Roots and Moroccan Heritage

Omar Berrada was born on 18 April 1978 in Paris, France, to Moroccan parents. Though his career would eventually revolve around football, his early life offered a mix of cultures and experiences. He spent part of his youth in the United States, where he initially pursued engineering studies. However, it soon became clear that his talents lay elsewhere.

A Shift Towards Business

After realising that engineering was not his true calling, Berrada relocated to Barcelona in his early twenties. There he studied Business Administration at the EU Business School, a move that would prove pivotal for his future. His time in Barcelona exposed him to the vibrant football culture of Spain and laid the foundation for his entry into the sporting world.

Career Beginnings

Early Roles in Telecommunications

Before stepping into the football industry, Berrada gained experience in the corporate world, working with Tiscali, a telecommunications and internet company. These early professional years gave him valuable exposure to marketing, operations, and international business — skills that would later serve him in football management.

Entry into FC Barcelona

In 2004, Berrada joined FC Barcelona, one of the most iconic clubs in football history. At Barcelona, he worked in commercial and marketing roles, developing expertise in sponsorship, partnerships, and global outreach. His ability to manage relationships with major international brands placed him on the radar of football’s top executives.

Rise to Prominence at Manchester City

Moving to Manchester

In 2011, Omar Berrada made the move to Manchester City, just as the club was embarking on its ambitious journey under Abu Dhabi ownership. At first, he was tasked with managing international business operations and partnerships, a role in which he excelled.

Climbing the Ranks

Over time, Berrada rose through the hierarchy of City Football Group (CFG), which oversees Manchester City and several other clubs worldwide. He served as Director of Partnerships, Chief Operating Officer, and eventually as Chief Football Operations Officer. His work helped City transform into one of the most commercially successful and globally recognised football brands.

The Business of Football

At Manchester City, Berrada demonstrated a rare ability to combine the commercial side of football with the demands of the pitch. He played a central role in developing sponsorship deals, expanding the club’s global presence, and ensuring that football operations were closely aligned with business strategy. His influence extended beyond Manchester, contributing to the growth of CFG’s network of clubs across continents.

The Move to Manchester United

A Historic Appointment

In January 2024, Manchester United made headlines by announcing Omar Berrada as their new Chief Executive Officer. His official start date came in July 2024, marking a significant turning point for the club. United’s decision to appoint a key executive from their fierce rivals highlighted the seriousness of their intent to reset the culture and future direction of the club.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

At Manchester United, Berrada faces the unique challenge of honouring the traditions of one of the most storied clubs in football history while also modernising its operations. The club has struggled in recent years, both on and off the pitch, and his arrival signals a fresh commitment to excellence.

Vision for Manchester United

Raising Standards Across the Board

Berrada has emphasised the importance of raising standards at every level of the club. From improving recruitment processes to investing in training facilities, his vision centres on creating an environment where players, coaches, and staff can thrive.

Infrastructure and Investment

One of his early priorities has been upgrading the club’s infrastructure, particularly at Carrington, Manchester United’s training ground. He believes that world-class facilities are essential for attracting and developing top talent.

A Football-First Philosophy

Unlike some executives who place commercial growth above all else, Berrada has spoken openly about putting football performance at the centre of Manchester United’s strategy. This football-first approach aims to restore the club’s competitive edge while still maintaining its financial strength.

Leadership Style

Strategic but Collaborative

Omar Berrada is often described as a calm, strategic leader who thrives on collaboration. He is not known for seeking the spotlight but for quietly driving results through careful planning and effective partnerships.

Global Mindset

His background — Moroccan heritage, Parisian birth, American upbringing, and Spanish education — gives him a uniquely global perspective. This outlook has allowed him to navigate the international nature of modern football, where clubs operate as both local institutions and global brands.

Challenges Ahead

Competitive Pressure

At Manchester United, the expectations are enormous. Fans, sponsors, and stakeholders all demand success both on and off the pitch. Berrada must deliver results in one of the most pressurised environments in sport.

Balancing Business and Sport

United is both a football club and a global business empire. Balancing these dual roles while ensuring that football performance remains central will test his leadership skills.

The Rivalry Factor

Coming from Manchester City, Berrada faces additional scrutiny. United fans will expect him to bring winning expertise without allowing the shadow of City’s dominance to linger.

Legacy in the Making

Omar Berrada’s story is still being written, but his influence on football is undeniable. From learning the ropes at Barcelona to shaping City’s global empire and now leading Manchester United into a new era, his career reflects the evolution of football in the 21st century.

If his vision succeeds, he could be remembered as the executive who restored Manchester United to its rightful place at the top of world football.

Conclusion

Omar Berrada is more than a football executive; he is a strategist who understands the delicate balance between commercial success and sporting glory. His journey from Paris to Barcelona, Manchester City, and now Manchester United illustrates the increasingly global and complex nature of modern football leadership.

As United’s CEO, he carries the hopes of millions of supporters worldwide. With his proven track record, calm leadership, and football-first philosophy, Omar Berrada is poised to shape not just Manchester United’s future but also the wider landscape of European football.