Omar Berrada: The Visionary CEO Reshaping Manchester United – Success, Struggles, and Bold Ambitions
From Paris to Old Trafford, Omar Berrada’s journey shows how determination, strategy, and leadership can transform football’s toughest challenges.
Introduction
Omar Berrada has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in world football management. His appointment as the CEO of Manchester United in 2024 signaled a new era for the club, and it was a move that shocked many across the football industry. Known for his sharp mind, cross-cultural experience, and ability to unite commercial growth with sporting success, Berrada stands as a unique figure in global sports leadership.
But his journey to the top has not been a straightforward one. From his Moroccan roots and Parisian birthplace, to his early struggles in education, and his eventual rise through Barcelona and Manchester City before moving to United, Omar Berrada’s life reflects both triumphs and trials. His story is not just about personal achievement but also about the broader lessons in resilience, leadership, and ambition.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Omar Berrada |
| Date of Birth | 18 April 1978 (Age 47 in 2025) |
| Birthplace | Paris, France |
| Nationality | French (Moroccan descent) |
| Education | Business Administration, EU Business School (Barcelona) |
| Parents | Moroccan (names not publicly known) |
| Spouse | Married (wife met at Tiscali) |
| Early Career | Telecommunications (Tiscali) |
| Football Career | FC Barcelona → Manchester City → City Football Group → Manchester United |
| Current Role | CEO of Manchester United (since July 2024) |
Early Life and Family Roots
Omar Berrada was born on 18 April 1978 in Paris, France, into a Moroccan family. His parents valued education and cultural exposure, which meant he spent part of his upbringing in the United States. This international childhood helped shape his ability to adapt across different cultures and environments later in life.
Despite being born in France, his Moroccan heritage remained a central part of his identity. These dual influences gave him both the discipline and the adaptability that would later become defining traits in his football leadership career.
Education and Formative Years
Berrada’s first steps in higher education came in the United States, where he briefly studied engineering in Massachusetts. However, he realized early that it wasn’t the right path for him and decided to leave after six months. Instead, he redirected his energy towards business and sports, two areas that matched his passion and skills.
He later enrolled at the EU Business School in Barcelona, where he studied Business Administration. Graduating in 1999, this educational shift placed him in the heart of a city where football was more than a game—it was culture, identity, and big business. That decision to study in Barcelona would become pivotal in shaping his career.
First Steps in Career: Telecommunications to Football
Like many future leaders, Berrada’s career didn’t start in the glamorous world of football. His first professional role was in the telecommunications sector, working for Tiscali (formerly World Online). While working there, he met his future wife, building both personal and professional networks that would stay with him through life.
In 2004, Berrada made his first major leap into football, joining FC Barcelona as part of their marketing and sponsorship team. His timing couldn’t have been better, as Barcelona was entering a golden period under Frank Rijkaard and later Pep Guardiola. He learned quickly, mastering the Catalan language and embedding himself deeply into the fabric of the club.
Rise at Manchester City
In 2011, Omar Berrada crossed football’s fierce divide by joining Manchester City as Head of International Business Development. His task was to help City expand its global footprint, organize pre-season tours, and establish regional partnerships. His performance impressed senior management, and soon he was promoted to Director of Partnerships.
By 2016, Berrada became Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Manchester City, a role that gave him responsibility for daily operations. Working alongside Ferran Soriano, he established himself as a strategic thinker capable of balancing business with the competitive demands of football. He played a vital role in high-profile transfers, including Aymeric Laporte in 2018, further cementing his reputation as a skilled negotiator.
Leadership at City Football Group
In 2020, his journey continued upward when he was named Chief Football Operations Officer at City Football Group (CFG). This expanded role meant that he was no longer confined to commercial activities but was directly involved in football operations across multiple clubs owned by CFG worldwide.
His ability to manage complexity and lead with a long-term vision made him one of the most respected executives in the game. From player recruitment strategies to operational models across clubs, Berrada’s influence grew to global proportions.
Appointment as Manchester United CEO
In a stunning move in January 2024, Manchester United announced Omar Berrada as their new Chief Executive Officer. This appointment was historic, as United had never previously hired a CEO from outside the club. Backed by INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s vision, the decision signaled a fresh, bold approach to reviving United’s glory days.
Officially taking charge in July 2024, Berrada immediately became the face of United’s restructuring project. His challenge was monumental: rebuild a club struggling with identity, infrastructure, and competitiveness, all while managing high expectations from fans and owners alike.
Recent Developments and Latest News
Since joining Manchester United, Berrada has made several key moves:
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Project 150: An ambitious plan targeting Premier League and Women’s Super League titles by 2028, coinciding with United’s 150th anniversary.
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Carrington Training Ground: Overseeing its complete renovation, set to open before the 2025–26 season, transforming it into an elite facility.
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Player Recruitment: Advocated for culturally aligned and high-quality signings, recently praising Matheus Cunha as a player with the swagger reminiscent of Eric Cantona.
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Cautious Optimism: Despite challenges, Berrada has emphasized a steady rebuild, focusing on culture, infrastructure, and strategic growth.
Legacy and Long-Term Vision
Omar Berrada’s legacy is still being written, but his trajectory suggests he is building towards something historic. His leadership is grounded in both commercial innovation and football intelligence, a rare combination in today’s game.
If “Project 150” succeeds, Berrada will be remembered as the man who revived Manchester United, not just on the pitch but also in its entire organizational culture. Even in these early years, he is already seen as a visionary leader capable of blending ambition with realistic planning.
Conclusion
The story of Omar Berrada is one of resilience, determination, and leadership. From his beginnings in Paris and Morocco to his rise in Barcelona and Manchester City, and now as the CEO of Manchester United, Berrada has shown how adaptability and vision can break barriers.
His journey proves that success is not without setbacks, but those setbacks often lead to greater achievements. As he leads Manchester United into its most ambitious project yet, the football world will be watching closely. His ability to balance positive ambition with difficult challenges will define not only his own legacy but also the future of one of the most iconic football clubs in history.
FAQs about Omar Berrada
Q1. Who is Omar Berrada?
Omar Berrada is the CEO of Manchester United, appointed in 2024, with previous leadership roles at Barcelona, Manchester City, and City Football Group.
Q2. Where was Omar Berrada born?
He was born on 18 April 1978 in Paris, France, into a Moroccan family.
Q3. What is Omar Berrada’s educational background?
He studied Business Administration at EU Business School in Barcelona after leaving an engineering course in Massachusetts.
Q4. What is “Project 150”?
It is Berrada’s ambitious plan to see Manchester United win Premier League and WSL titles by 2028, the club’s 150th anniversary.
Q5. What makes Omar Berrada unique as a football executive?
His rare ability to combine business acumen with football operations makes him stand out. He is fluent in multiple languages and has experience across telecom, Barcelona, City, and United.
