Until the past decade, most English clubs did not have a director of football or its equivalent. This was long after they were a staple not just at every football club, but just about every professional team in every professional sport worldwide. The role, known as director of football (DOF) in this context, encompasses responsibilities such as player recruitment, contract negotiations, and long-term planning for the football side of the club.
Traditionally, managers were reluctant to cede power, and the absence of a DOF was prevalent. However, the landscape has shifted, with clubs now considering the position indispensable. Manchester United's recent pursuit of a DOF exemplifies this shift, with reports suggesting a substantial compensation package for the desired candidate.
