Manchester United are badly in need of some direction. Ever since the start of the post-Ferguson era, bad decision after bad decision has resulted in a fairly sharp decline for the club.
As they seek to right the wrongs of the past few seasons, appointing a director of football would seem like the logical step. While Ed Woodward has greatly improved things in a financial sense, it is now widely accepted that his knowledge is lacking when it comes to the football side of the business.
Someone with greater understanding of the game would allow Woodward to concentrate on the areas where his expertise are most required. United are believed to have been looking at potential candidates for the role for over a year, but one obvious name now seems to be out of the running.
Edwin van der Sar has signed a new contract with Ajax, which will keep him at the club until 2023. The Dutchman has been acting as the club's CEO in recent years, playing a major part in their resurgence on the continental stage.
Very happy with my contract extension at this beautiful club! I started as a goalie in 1991, 3 years ago I became @AFCAjax CEO. We’ve had some difficult moments, but the good times are definitely back. And of course we want more in the future! ❌❌❌#VdSar2023 #ForTheFuture pic.twitter.com/3XFr8CDyIu
— Edwin van der Sar (@vdsar1970) November 15, 2019
Ajax have been praised for their productive youth academy and the prudent deals they have conducted in the transfer market, signing players for cut price fees and turning valuable contributors.
Van de Sar would have been the perfect solution for Manchester United, considering his track record and links with the club. They will now likely have look elsewhere.
Ralf Ragnick is the favourite for the position, although he could be hard to prise from the Red Bull football group. Either way, United will be looking to make the change sooner rather than later.
