Following a turbulent season lacking in consistency, Manchester United are no doubt looking to revolutionise their squad in an effort to sustainably build towards a brighter future.
Last week, the club took a major step forward, hiring Christopher Vivell as their interim director of recruitment.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS looking to overhaul the club’s management structure, Vivell is one of the latest in a series of new appointments, alongside CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Dan Ashworth. Still, what made the 37 year old such a sought-after candidate in INEOS’ eyes?
Having recently finished his gardening leave, Vivell was Chelsea’s technical director, departing this role in July 2023. But his journey certainly didn’t start there.
The German began his career at Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in 2010, starting out as a video analyst before becoming a scout. In 2015, he departed for RB Salzburg, where he was appointed the club’s head of scouting. Three years later, Vivell was named as Salzburg’s head of recruitment, clearly impressing the club with his keen eye for fresh talent.
As noted by The Athletic, one of Vivell’s most noteworthy moves at Salzburg was the signing of Erling Haaland from Molde in 2019.
“The big clubs wanted him too,” Vivell explained. “But they wanted to do a loan programme, which neither his father nor Erling wanted. That’s why we managed to bring him to us.”
Coincidentally, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was one of the managers who recognised Haaland’s talents, even recommending him to Man United, who failed to convince the Norwegian to come to Old Trafford.
In addition to Haaland, Salzburg also signed Benjamin Sesko, Dayot Upamecano and Karim Adeyemi under Vivell’s watchful gaze. Clearly, the young German recruiter’s expertise was well beyond his years.
While Vivell’s proven track record convinced Chelsea to hire him, the club’s questionable changes in organisational structure under Todd Boehly led to complications. With Vivell being forced to report to co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, his influence was minimal compared to at his previous clubs.
Now, it appears as if Vivell is wasting no time getting to work at Old Trafford, with The Peoples Person relaying that he has already begun his work at the club, primarily aiding in the identification of fresh talent and overseeing player recruitment.
As per the report, while Vivell is serving in an interim capacity, his role could develop into a permanent one.
Having spent exactly 12 months on gardening leave before arriving at Old Trafford, Vivell has exhibited an eagerness to return to action. His enthusiasm is a positive sign for United, with the club in desperate need of fresh talent as well as more squad depth in order to continue challenging for titles while avoiding any further injury crises.
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