The Athletic FC Podcast Summary
Episode: Why INEOS Ended Ferguson's Man United Contract
Release Date: October 15, 2024
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
Guests: Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell, Phil Hay
1. Introduction
The episode delves into the recent decision by INEOS to terminate Sir Alex Ferguson's ambassadorial contract with Manchester United. Hosted by Ayo Akinwolere and featuring insights from Adam Crafton, Laurie Whitwell, and Phil Hay, the discussion unpacks the reasons behind this move and its broader implications for the club.
2. INEOS Ends Ferguson's Ambassadorial Contract
2.1. Cost-Cutting Measures
Adam Crafton introduces the main topic, revealing that Manchester United has ended Sir Alex Ferguson's ambassadorial contract, a move spearheaded by INEOS.
"[03:54] Adam Crafton: Tell us why this has happened."
Ayo Akinwolere explains that this decision is part of a larger cost-cutting strategy undertaken by INEOS, aiming to rationalize expenses and enhance financial efficiency within the club.
"[04:10] Ayo Akinwolere: …they are building what they would consider to be a more modern football structure… there isn't really a natural place in for Sir Alex Ferguson kind of figure in a formal way."
2.2. Role of Ferguson at Manchester United
Laurie Whitwell elaborates on Ferguson's ambassadorial duties, highlighting that the role primarily involved sponsorship launches and commercial activities rather than day-to-day management.
"[05:20] Laurie Whitwell: I think it basically meant that he would be available for sponsorship launches and commercial activities…he certainly had an office at Old Trafford where he could entertain people."
3. Implications of the Decision
3.1. Ineos' Modernization Strategy
Ayo discusses how INEOS views Manchester United akin to their other business ventures, focusing on "right-sizing" and streamlining operations for better financial health.
"[08:20] Ayo Akinwolere: … they are building what they would consider to be a more modern football structure… Manchester United like one of their other companies that they are trying to, in their words, right size and make the spreadsheet look way more sensible."
3.2. Commercial and Cultural Significance
Phil Hay raises questions about the cultural impact of removing a legendary figure like Ferguson, pondering whether his absence might influence the club's atmosphere and fan perception.
"[17:10] Phil Hay: … remove a very high paid by the standards of an ambassador, but essentially removing an ambassador from his role."
"[19:24] Laurie Whitwell: … the Glazers did just seem to get on. That's the other bit, which you kind of maybe is a bit more uncomfortable for fans."
3.3. Potential Future Projects for Ferguson
Ayo speculates on Ferguson's potential endeavors post-Manchester United, such as films or documentaries, indicating a shift away from active club involvement.
"[08:20] Ayo Akinwolere: … they would have wanted to do something? So... projects, you know, with his family and things like that."
4. Fan Reactions and Perspectives
4.1. Mixed Generational Views
Laurie Whitwell observes that reactions to Ferguson's departure are split along generational lines, with older fans grieving the loss and newer fans viewing it as part of the club's evolution.
"[13:29] Laurie Whitwell: … it feels like maybe this is a split between certain generations possibly... memories he gave to them and then others… it's new world."
4.2. Criticism and Support
The discussion touches on the debate over whether Ferguson's compensation was justified, especially in light of the club's financial struggles and workforce reductions.
"[14:00] Laurie Whitwell: … having sort of £2 million a year. People will probably be surprised at that. … they've done it with Solix Ferguson. So... people lower down the food chain, you know, you kind of have to accept it."
Phil Hay emphasizes that while the decision might be financially motivated, it risks alienating fans if the club's performance does not improve.
"[17:10] Phil Hay: … if this doesn't go well at United over the next year… this is the sort of thing that will be put on the list of grievances against them."
5. Manager Erik Ten Hag Under Scrutiny
5.1. Recent Performances
The conversation shifts to Erik Ten Hag's tenure as Manchester United's manager, with Laurie Whitwell detailing the team's disappointing start to the season and ongoing performance issues.
"[23:01] Adam Crafton: … the job of Eric Ten Hag. … hasn't started the season that well."
5.2. Future at Manchester United
Phil Hay and Ayo debate Ten Hag's future, considering the lack of “outstanding candidates” to replace him and the high expectations set by the club's leadership.
"[28:44] Phil Hay: … there is one outstanding candidate who's just become available as of today, who, who managed the club for quite a long time."
"[29:13] Ayo Akinwolere: … if there was an outstanding candidate… if erik10hag would still be in this job at this moment in time."
5.3. Potential Successors
Laurie mentions possible managerial candidates like Thomas Frank and Ruben Al Marim, though Ayo expresses skepticism about finding a suitable replacement capable of elevating the team immediately.
"[26:08] Ayo Akinwolere: … I think there are enough impressive candidates out there… people like Thomas Tuchel, Thomas Frank."
"[29:31] Instacart Ad Interruption"
6. Conclusion
The episode wraps up with reflections on the intertwining of Manchester United's financial strategies, managerial challenges, and the symbolic end of an era with Ferguson's departure. The panel underscores the uncertainty surrounding the club's future direction and the potential ripple effects of INEOS' recent decisions.
"[41:25] Ayo Akinwolere: The Athletic FC Podcast Network."
Notable Quotes
- Ayo Akinwolere [04:10]: “They are building what they would consider to be a more modern football structure… there isn't really a natural place in for Sir Alex Ferguson kind of figure in a formal way.”
- Laurie Whitwell [05:20]: “He was an association of Manchester United, so they could tap into his heritage, his prestige.”
- Phil Hay [17:10]: “If things don't go well, this is the sort of thing that will be put on the list of grievances against them.”
- Ayo Akinwolere [26:15]: “Can you find someone who can make the team not be 14th in the table, right. And win a game in the Europa League, right.”
This comprehensive summary captures the pivotal discussions from the episode, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the key issues surrounding INEOS' decision to end Sir Alex Ferguson's contract and its broader impact on Manchester United.