Originally reported by The Athletic.
Jason Wilcox’s rise at Manchester United has been nothing short of meteoric. Once a relatively under-the-radar figure, he now stands as the club’s most senior football executive, shaping the next chapter of one of the world’s most scrutinized sporting institutions. His growing influence is a blend of tactical astuteness, people-first leadership, and deep roots in English football. Here’s how he did it.
The First Statement Move: Ayden Heaven
The story begins in January 2025. Wilcox, then technical director, orchestrated Manchester United’s signing of 18-year-old Ayden Heaven — beating financially superior offers from Chelsea, Newcastle, Barcelona, and Marseille. The key wasn’t money. It was vision.
Wilcox brought Heaven to Old Trafford to watch United play Rangers in the Europa League, facilitated a meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson, and introduced him to then-head coach Ruben Amorim. He made the teenager feel part of a long-term footballing identity, centered on player development and bravery in possession.
The signing, completed for just £1.5 million, was not only a major coup but a symbolic start to Wilcox’s tenure as United’s chief dealmaker.
From Southampton to Old Trafford
Before joining United, Wilcox was Southampton’s Director of Football, where he oversaw the club’s promotion to the Premier League. Though his short stint featured few big-money arrivals, he successfully restructured the football department, identified Russell Martin as the right coach, and enabled a dynamic playing style.
More notably, his past at Manchester City — where he served as academy director — had laid a foundation of trust and respect across the football industry. It was this grounding, and his alignment with Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada (a fellow City alumnus), that fast-tracked his rise.
Vision Meets Experience
Wilcox, a Premier League winner with Blackburn Rovers and former England international, commands authority. His “football-first” instinct is matched by a deep understanding of club dynamics, particularly within the English game.
At City, Wilcox was known for his trust in his staff and ability to identify young talent. At United, those qualities are now being leveraged at the very top.
Strategic Talent Acquisition: Cunha, Yoro & Delap
Wilcox’s eye for talent is already reshaping United’s transfer approach. He was instrumental in the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves and worked hands-on in the early stages of acquiring Leny Yoro, even enlisting Rio Ferdinand to help with the pitch. He also spearheaded the (ultimately unsuccessful) bid for Liam Delap — a player he had previously worked with at City.
Wilcox’s methodology is clear: define a long-term strategy, target players that fit, and stand firm on valuations. Some agents may find him inflexible, but others admire his clarity and consistency.
Relationship Builder: Amorim & Ratcliffe
One of Wilcox’s greatest strengths is his interpersonal skill. He has forged a strong relationship with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, INEOS’s figurehead at United, who values his warmth, humour, and footballing intellect.
This chemistry is mirrored in his daily work with Ruben Amorim. Though Wilcox had initial reservations about the Portuguese coach, he has since built a strong rapport — aligning on footballing vision and tactical philosophy.
The New Era Begins
Wilcox is now part of a three-man executive triangle at United — alongside Berrada and chief business officer Marc Armstrong. Together, they represent INEOS’s leadership reboot. With David Harrison stepping down as Director of Football Operations, Wilcox’s role will only grow more central.
Despite his fast rise, some within the club urge caution — Wilcox has only two years of senior executive experience. Yet in a post-Ed Woodward era defined by missteps and scattergun strategies, his clear footballing lens offers both identity and direction.
As Manchester United prepare for a crucial summer window and the pressure of returning to elite status, all eyes are now on Jason Wilcox — the quiet architect entrusted with rebuilding the red half of Manchester.
