Omar Berrada speaks clearly: Why shouldn't Manchester United be champions by 2028?

New CEO, new order

One of the most critical steps in Manchester United’s sporting and institutional restructuring was the appointment of Omar Berrada as CEO. Following a successful stint at Manchester City, Berrada’s switch to United was announced on 20 January 2024, and he officially took up the role in January 2025, marking the beginning of a new era at Old Trafford. Within the new structure developed in partnership with INEOS, Berrada is seen as the central figure in reviving the club both on and off the pitch.

Worst season: a first since 1973/74

The 2024/25 campaign went down as one of the harshest collapses in Manchester United’s modern football history. Finishing 15th in the Premier League, the Red Devils recorded their worst position in the league era. From a broader historical perspective, this marked the club’s most dramatic decline since relegation in the 1973/74 season. After losing the Europa League final to Tottenham, United also missed out on a Champions League spot and will only compete in three competitions next season.

Project 150 still in place

Despite the disastrous season, Omar Berrada’s goals remain unchanged. The internal plan previously announced as “Project 150” targets making Manchester United Premier League champions in 2028 — the club’s 150th anniversary year.

“Yes, this season was hugely disappointing. But instead of scaling down our ambitions, why not raise them? Who says we can’t be champions in 2028? We’re going to work towards that goal,”

Berrada stated in an internal club broadcast. These remarks were first shared in an interview with the fanzine United We Stand.

Less burden, greater focus

Being out of European competitions could turn into an advantage for head coach Ruben Amorim. With a less demanding calendar, the team may have a smoother season and adapt better to Amorim’s detailed and disciplined system.

Amorim: “Playing for time is not our style”

The Portuguese coach is not keen on long-term plans that require extended patience. In a statement made in April, he emphasised that a club like Manchester United must aim for rapid transformation rather than buying time:

“We can’t say, let’s wait four years and then try. The size of this club demands quick reactions. We have to be better immediately. Our goal must be the title — not necessarily winning it, but feeling the pressure of that target.”

The nature of football: nothing is impossible

“If Leicester could do it, why can’t we?” Berrada asks with intent. Alongside this example, Chelsea’s rise from 10th place to league champions the following year also comes to mind.

Manchester United’s history, financial structure and global fanbase already provide the foundations for such a turnaround.

Translating that potential into tangible success hinges on clear vision and resolute leadership. Omar Berrada has assumed that responsibility in his very first year in charge. Ruben Amorim, meanwhile, is a manager well-equipped to carry the weight of that ambition on the pitch.

The 2028 goal won’t be easy. But there’s still only one question to ask: Why not?