Ed Woodward’s tenure at Manchester United was one of the most turbulent in the club’s modern history.
Initially playing a key role in facilitating the Glazers’ controversial takeover in 2005, Woodward was later appointed as the club’s executive vice-chairman in 2013 following David Gill’s departure.
During his time in charge, he oversaw a chaotic recruitment strategy.
United were often overpaying for underperforming players while struggling to land key transfer targets.
His role in United’s off-field dealings, including sponsorship agreements and commercial growth, was praised.
However, his handling of football operations was widely criticised by fans.
The biggest backlash came in 2021, when Woodward was central to United’s involvement in the failed European Super League.
Fan outrage and widespread protests pushed him to step down, with his official departure coming in early 2022.
Ed Woodward set for return to football as director
Now, according to Sky News, Woodward is in line for a return to football as an independent director at Eagle Football Holdings.
The company, controlled by John Textor, is preparing to go public in the United States, with a valuation expected to exceed $2 billion.
Eagle Football owns stakes in multiple clubs, including Crystal Palace, Brazilian champions Botafogo, RW Molenbeek in Belgium, and FC Florida.
Woodward’s appointment is not yet confirmed, but he has been approached as the group moves towards an initial public offering (IPO).
Textor has previously spoken about making club ownership more transparent.
A principle he believes public ownership of football teams can achieve.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are also making significant changes at the top.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group has taken control of football operations and recently appointed Christopher Vivell as director of global talent.
In an interview with The Athletic, Raphael Varane highlighted the issue of too many voices influencing decisions at United.
An area INEOS is now working to fix by implementing a clear football structure above the manager.
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