PL news: Richard Arnold will replace Ed Woodward at Manchester United

Manchester United have announced that Richard Arnold will replace Ed Woodward as their most senior executive on February 1st.

Woodward stated his intention to leave his role as executive vice-chairman last season. That was in the middle of the fallout from the now doomed European Super League idea.

Arnold originally joined United in August 2007 and has been managing director at the Old Trafford club since 2013.

It has also been reported that Woodward will remain on the board until the end of the season, which will involve attending a couple of meetings. Previous stories had indicated that he would take a consultancy role with the club. This is no longer the case. 

More reaction

A group of United fans gave their thoughts on the announcement via the All For United YouTube account.

In a statement on United's website, Richard Arnold said: “I am honoured to have the chance to serve this great club and its fans. I am determined to return that honour in any way I can.”

Joel Glazer, Executive Co-Chairman added on the same statement: “I would like to thank Ed for his tireless work on behalf of Manchester United during his nine years as Executive Vice-Chairman and 16 years with the club. 

“We are now looking forward to Richard and his leadership team opening a new phase in the club’s evolution, with ambitious plans for investment in Old Trafford, the strengthening of our engagement with fans, and continued drive towards our most important objective – winning on the pitch.”

On Twitter, one United gave the new man some advice: "First job … sell any player that doesn’t want to be here and work hard! Sign players who want to play for the club and work their a****s off. We can’t sign replacements straight away, use the youth lads & recall those on loan."