The appointment of Omar Berrada as chief executive officer of Manchester United in July 2024 marked the first instance of the club selecting an outside candidate for the role. Born in 1978 in Paris to Moroccan parents, Berrada has developed a career spanning the telecommunications sector and professional football administration across Europe.
Formative Years and Education
Raised in the United States, Berrada initially pursued engineering at a university in Massachusetts before withdrawing after six months. He relocated to Barcelona in 2001 at age 23. His academic background includes a degree in Business Administration from the EU Business School in Spain, as well as studies at the IESE Business School.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Early Career in Telecommunications
Berrada began his professional path in the telecommunications industry. He held a position at the company Tiscali, where he established early professional connections that facilitated his transition into sports management. It was during his time at Tiscali that he met his wife.
Tenure at Barcelona
In 2004, Berrada transitioned to football administration by joining Barcelona as a marketing manager. He was recruited by the club's chief marketing officer, who had previously served as the CEO of Tiscali Spain. Berrada remained with the club until 2011, operating during a timeframe that involved Ferran Soriano, Txiki Begiristain, and Pep Guardiola.
Executive Roles at Manchester City
Berrada joined Manchester City in 2011. Initially leading the international business department, he managed regional partnerships and preseason tours. Following a promotion to Director of Partnerships, he worked under Soriano, the CEO of City Football Group. By 2016, Berrada moved from London to Manchester to serve as Chief Operating Officer. In 2020, he transitioned to Chief Football Operations Officer, shifting his focus toward recruitment strategy and player acquisitions, including the 2018 transfer of Aymeric Laporte.
Fast facts
- Born: 1978, Paris, France
- Citizenship: France
- Education: EU Business School, IESE Business School
- Languages: French, Spanish, English, Catalan
- Current Position: Chief Executive Officer, Manchester United
- Previous Club: Manchester City
- First Industry: Telecommunications
Questions readers ask
What was Berrada's first role in professional football?
He joined Barcelona in 2004 as a marketing manager.
Did Berrada work for other sports organizations?
He was approached by NFL franchises in 2023 but remained at Manchester City at that time.
Achievements
- Educated at EU Business School and IESE Business School
