Crystal Palace’s co-owner and chairman has dismissed reports linking the club’s sporting director, Dougie Freedman, with a move to Manchester United. The speculation comes amidst significant changes at Old Trafford, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s deal to acquire a 25% stake in the club nearing completion. Long-serving chief executive Richard Arnold is set to step down, with Jean-Claude Blanc, a prominent figure at Ineos Sport, being considered for the position.
In addition to the executive changes, Manchester United is also on the hunt for a new sporting director. Several names have been linked to the role, including former Tottenham man Paul Mitchell, and ex-Liverpool duo Michael Edwards and Julian Ward. However, Freedman’s name has also been circulating in the rumor mill, having impressed with his work at Crystal Palace, where he has played a key role in signing promising young talents such as Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze, and Michael Olise.
Addressing the speculation, Crystal Palace’s co-owner and chairman, Steve Parish, stated on The Rest is Football podcast, “The fact he’s being linked with clubs like that show he’s doing the right thing. You would have to get into the minds of those people [United decision makers] wouldn’t you? I certainly don’t think there’s been any conversations. It’s flattering for the club.”
Parish also emphasized Freedman’s importance to the club, highlighting his instrumental role in the team’s promotion and his affinity for Crystal Palace. Freedman’s connection to the club runs deep, having played for the Eagles for 10 years over two spells, before managing the team in 2011 and later returning as sporting director in 2017.
As the speculation surrounding Freedman’s future continues, it remains to be seen whether he will make the move to Manchester United or continue his impactful work at Crystal Palace. The club’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the resolution of this saga, as they recognize the significant contributions Freedman has made to the team’s success.