Manchester United have announced that Andy O'Boyle has rejoined the club as deputy football director.
O'Boyle — who arrives two days after Ralf Rangnick's departure — will provide support to United's football director John Murtough. The club have announced that he will work to 'drive the club's football strategy across the first team, academy and women's team.
It's another significant appointment for United behind the scenes on the football side. Here, MEN Sport has taken a look at O'Boyle in further detail and how he will fit into United's future.
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His United history
A lifelong United fan, O'Boyle has previously worked at Carrington but his connections go further back than that. As a youngster, he played in the United centre of excellence in Northern Ireland before focusing on behind-the-scenes work.
O'Boyle first worked for United 16 years ago as a coach for their academy. During that time he helped develop the likes of Marcus Rashford.
What is his football background beyond United?
After leaving United, O'Boyle spent two years as a fitness coach at Wrexham before taking on a sports scientist role at Coventry City in 2008. A large period of time was then spent at Anfield where he was a conditioning coach between 2011 and 2017.
His work at Liverpool was spotted by the FA, who hired him as a conditioning coach for the national team's Under 21 side. O'Boyle only spent a year with England before joining the Premier League as their head of elite performance.
A move away from the Premier League was prompted by United's approach for him for this new role. O'Boyle will complete his UEFA Pro Licence this summer and is working towards a doctorate in sports science.
What has O'Boyle said about the role?
“I am thrilled to be rejoining Manchester United at such an exciting time for the club, as the first team prepares for a fresh start under Erik ten Hag, and the academy and women’s teams go from strength-to-strength. Whilst it has been a privilege to serve the Premier League for the past five years, I can’t wait to get started at United and play my part in creating the right environment for football success."
What has Murtough said about O'Boyle's appointment?
"We are delighted to welcome Andy back to Manchester United to take up this important role in the club’s leadership. Andy has experience across all technical areas of football, from fitness and sports science to scouting and recruitment.
"This will make him a valuable addition to my team at Carrington as we continue to strengthen leadership and strategic planning across all our football activities."
