Manchester United football director John Murtough to step down after 11 years as club shake up continues

The Manchester United hierarchy is set to take another shuffle, after John Murtough announced his intention to leave the club after 11 years.

Murtough was appointed as the Red Devils' first football director in 2021.

But that is just the tip of the iceberg of the number of positions he has held at Old Trafford since moving from Everton in 2013.

Murtough has also been involved with the United academy system and recruitment department, while he also has strong ties to the club's women's team.

Chairman Sir Jim Ratcliffe said: "We want to thank John for his loyal service over many years, and for his support and integrity during this period of transition.

"He leaves with our best wishes for the future."

Murtough's departure is the latest in a number of changes to the United hierarchy since Ratcliffe completed a deal to buy a minority stake in the club in February.

The INEOS CEO owns 27.7% of shares and is believed to be keen to bring Dan Ashworth to Old Trafford, with the Newcastle United sporting director having been put on gardening leave by the Magpies following reported interest from the Red Devils.

Omar Berrada has already been installed as CEO after joining United from rivals Manchester City

After such movement, Murtough decided that it was the right time to move on to pastures news.

Red Devils co-chair Joel Glazer added: "After 11 years of tireless work for the club, John has mutually agreed with us that now is the right time to step aside and allow the new football leadership structure to be put in place.

"He will always be welcome back at Manchester United as a friend of the club."

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