Crystal Palace’s co-owner and chairman, Steve Parish, has dismissed reports linking the club’s sporting director, Dougie Freedman, with a move to Manchester United. The speculation comes amid significant changes behind the scenes at Old Trafford, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a 25% stake in the club nearing completion. This has also led to the impending departure of long-serving chief executive Richard Arnold, with Jean-Claude Blanc from Ineos Sport being considered as his replacement.
In addition to the search for a new chief executive, Manchester United is also in the market for a new sporting director. Several names have been linked with the role, including former Tottenham man Paul Mitchell, as well as ex-Liverpool duo Michael Edwards and Julian Ward. However, Freedman’s name has also been mentioned in connection with the position, thanks to his success at Crystal Palace in signing some of the Premier League’s most promising young talents, such as Marc Guehi, Eberechi Eze, and Michael Olise.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Steve Parish addressed the rumors, stating, “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 highlighted Freedman’s importance to the club, noting his instrumental role in their promotion and his affinity for Crystal Palace. Freedman’s history with the club includes a 10-year playing career over two spells, as well as a managerial stint that kick-started their return to the Premier League. After unsuccessful managerial spells at Bolton and Nottingham Forest, Freedman returned to Selhurst Park as the sporting director in 2017.
Despite the speculation surrounding Freedman’s future, Parish emphasized the positive impact Freedman has had, particularly in the transfer market, stating, “He’s got a real affinity to the club and works really hard. We have signed some really good players and most importantly – the transfer window which is probably the hardest part of the job – it’s fun being involved in it with him.”
The news of Freedman’s potential departure from Crystal Palace has generated significant interest, with fans and pundits eager to see how the situation unfolds. As the club continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the Premier League, the role of the sporting director has never been more crucial, and Freedman’s potential move to Manchester United would undoubtedly have a significant impact on both clubs.