Jim Ratcliffe says Man Utd's recruitment analysis is 'from last century'

Jim Ratcliffe, part-owner of Manchester United, has opened up about the shortcomings in the club's recruitment strategies and its dated data analysis.

Man Utd have been heavily criticised in recent years over player signings which have not worked out and cost the club high prices - often what are generally seen as their market value.

Clearly the blame for this comes from the data analysis and recruitment department. And Ratcliffe added his voice to those unhappy, saying that the set up is way out of date and in stuck in the last century.

Having invested in United in last February, Ratcliffe has already taken steps to shake up the football structure at Old Trafford.

New appointments have been made, including a new chief executive, sporting director, and technical director. Ratcliffe believes these changes, along with a strong emphasis on utilizing data, are crucial to fixing the club's recruitment issue.

In order to bring the club back on track, Ratcliffe believes in the importance of data analysis in recruitment. He stated that 'data analysis doesn't really exist' in the club.

"We must have the best recruitment in the world. Data analysis comes alongside recruitment. It doesn't really exist here. We’re still in the last century on data analysis here," Ratcliffe pointed out.

He believes that an efficient use of data can help the club make better decisions when it comes to recruitment. This strategy has seen success with other Premier League clubs, with Brighton and Brentford being pioneers in this field.

While changes won't happen overnight, Ratcliffe says he is motivated to put in the resources, time, and effort required to transform Manchester United's recruitment and data analysis for the better.

Meanwhile, Ratcliffe has offered spectators a reason for the recent surge in matchday ticket prices at Old Trafford, drawing comparisons with the costs incurred by Fulham fans.

Despite the heated criticism received so far, Ratcliffe maintains that the price increase is a response to ensuring financial equity between clubs.

United's recent decision to raise ticket prices to £66 per game - applicable irrespective of the purchaser's age - has been met with protests from fans.

Supporters from United, Everton, Liverpool and Manchester City have called out the clubs for exploiting fans' loyalty, and the price hike has added fire to their cause.

Ratcliffe argues that it does not make sense for Manchester United tickets to cost less than a ticket to see Fulham. His argument stems from the belief that ticket prices should reflect the status and appeal of the club.

He also outlined that the increase would only affect a small portion - approximately 3% - of unsold and resold tickets, with the majority of tickets already sold at the original price.

Recognizing Manchester as a working-class city, Ratcliffe has stressed the importance of striking a balance, acknowledging that while ticket price optimization is a goal, ensuring genuine local fans can afford to attend games remains a priority.

He emphasised, "We must make sure that we look after the community because at the end of the day it's their football club."