Since INEOS assumed control of football operations at Manchester United, their mission has been clear – transform the club from top to bottom.
From infrastructure and recruitment to behind-the-scenes leadership, INEOS want to build a best-in-class operation capable of restoring United to the pinnacle of European football.
Already, the changes have been vast.
A £50 million renovation of Carrington has changed the training ground, while plans for a new stadium underline INEOS’ long-term commitment.
At the directors level, United’s structure has been rebuilt, with Christopher Vivell and Jason Wilcox leading a newly appointed team.
On the pitch, investment has also been significant, with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha all arriving this summer to bolster attacking options.
But the job is far from finished.
INEOS recognise that success cannot be achieved through marquee signings alone.
United’s revival depends on excellence in every department, particularly in the academy, which has historically been the lifeblood of the club.
That is why their latest move could be crucial.
According to the BBC, United are set to appoint Stephen Torpey as their new head of academy, replacing Nick Cox, who is set to join Everton.
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Torpey’s arrival is notable for several reasons.
He only joined Brentford as academy director in January 2024, but in that short time, he made a major impact, spearheading the club’s push from a Category 4 to a Category 1 academy.
Before Brentford, Torpey built his reputation at Manchester City, where he worked closely with Jason Wilcox.
During his time there, he played a pivotal role in the development of some of City’s brightest young stars, including Cole Palmer, Romeo Lavia and Rico Lewis.
His proven track record in nurturing elite talent makes him an attractive choice for United, and his connection with Wilcox will ensure alignment in the club’s long-term academy vision.
Torpey will become the second arrival from Brentford this summer, following Bryan Mbeumo’s transfer.
At Brentford, Torpey placed heavy emphasis on human development, focusing on helping players grow as people as well as footballers.
That approach not only can produce better professionals but also more grounded individuals, equipped to succeed whether they break into the first team or pursued careers elsewhere.
This balance is crucial for a club like United.
The academy is not just about producing stars for the senior squad but also about creating valuable assets who can generate funds in the transfer market.
Torpey has already demonstrated that he understands this, and he now faces the challenge of applying it at one of the biggest academies in world football.
While details of his official start date are still being finalised, Nick Cox is expected to continue overseeing the role until Torpey is in place.
Few clubs place as much importance on youth development as Manchester United.
For INEOS, strengthening this pathway is about more than heritage, it’s about strategy.
Developing homegrown players helps maintain the club’s culture, provides long-term stability, and reduces the need for huge spending in the transfer market.
Every academy graduate who makes the step up allows funds to be redirected toward other key areas of the squad.
If Torpey can replicate his work at Brentford and City, United’s academy could once again become a pipeline of elite-level talent.
And if the academy thrives, the entire club benefits.
Torpey’s appointment is another sign that INEOS are serious about rebuilding Manchester United in every respect.
The transformation is only just beginning, but with smart investments on and off the pitch, they are laying the foundations for a brighter future.
