Jason Wilcox takes charge of Manchester United’s transfer strategy in executive reshuffle

Jason Wilcox has officially stepped into the role of director of football at Manchester United, in a move that consolidates his influence over the club’s evolving transfer strategy. The decision is part of a wider structural refresh at board level as United continue to reshape their post-acquisition identity.

From City academy to United’s top table

Wilcox joined United as technical director in April 2024 after a stint at Southampton, but his reputation had long been established from his successful years at Manchester City, where he oversaw academy operations. Those who worked with him, including Txiki Begiristain, rated his talent-spotting instincts among the best in the game.

His promotion comes months after Dan Ashworth was removed from the sporting director role in December, a high-profile exit that left a leadership vacuum in United’s football department. Since then, Wilcox has quietly expanded his remit, building a direct relationship with manager Ruben Amorim and aligning closely with his tactical principles.

Brailsford steps back as INEOS reshapes

In contrast, Sir Dave Brailsford — once a key figure in United’s internal reorganisation — is expected to reduce his day-to-day involvement, according to The Athletic. Brailsford, a trusted lieutenant of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, had played an integral role during the initial months following INEOS’s minority stake acquisition.

His shift back to INEOS’s cycling operations marks a subtle pivot in Ratcliffe’s delegation strategy, handing greater autonomy to football-specific experts like Wilcox.

Ratcliffe’s trust in Wilcox: “He gets it”

“Jason, for me, is a guy at the coal face,” Ratcliffe told The Times. “He knows what’s working, what isn’t, and he’s got a great understanding of Ruben’s system and vision. When I listen to him speak, I get it.”

Ratcliffe praised Wilcox’s grounded presence, technical acumen, and ability to bridge executive vision with coaching realities — an area where United had struggled in the past. The contrast with the previous regime, featuring Erik ten Hag and John Murtough, has been repeatedly emphasised by the club’s new leadership.

Transfer activity under Wilcox already underway

United’s summer activity is already reflecting Wilcox’s fingerprints. The early signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves demonstrated a push for versatility in the final third, while the club’s opening bid for Bryan Mbeumo signals a move toward Premier League-proven productivity.

Wilcox is believed to be playing a key role in shortlisting players who can complement Amorim’s pressing-oriented system — with a focus on intelligent movement, technical security, and positional discipline.