Richard Arnold, Chief Executive of Manchester United, has decided to depart the club after an serving the team for 16 years. He has been with United since 2007, rising to the role of chief executive following Woodward’s exit as executive vice-chairman.
Patrick Stewart, who is currently serving as General Counsel, will assume the interim CEO position.
Richard will provide transitional support until the end of December, paving the way for an extensive search to appoint a new permanent Chief Executive Officer.
Joel Glazer, the Executive Co-Chairman, expressed appreciation for Richard’s remarkable service and extended best wishes for his future endeavors. Patrick Stewart, chosen for the interim role, brings profound knowledge and experience to ensure stability during this transitional phase.
“I would like to thank Richard for his outstanding service to Manchester United over the past 16 years, and wish him all the best for his future endeavors. We are fortunate to be able to call on the deep knowledge and experience of Patrick Stewart to provide interim stability and continuity as we embark on a search for a new permanent CEO,” Glazer said.
Reflecting on his tenure, Richard Arnold acknowledged the privilege of serving the football club through its highs and lows. He expressed gratitude to the dedicated employees and fans, conveying well wishes to everyone associated with the club.
In his statement, Patrick Stewart outlined his responsibility, emphasizing the focus on maintaining the club’s stability while implementing changes for long-term strength, both on and off the pitch. Additionally, he committed to supporting the search for a new permanent CEO.
“Together with my leadership team colleagues, my job will be to ensure that the club’s foundations remain stable while we embrace changes that can make us stronger over the long term, on and off the pitch, and to support the search for a new permanent CEO,” Patrick Stewart assured.
His departure comes amid concerns of several players on the management style of Erik Ten Hag after the team recorded a more than 15 matches loss.
Despite the mounting scrutiny, Ten Hag is confident in his abilities and intends to guide Manchester United back to a more successful path.