Kieran Maguire: Man United scaring off the best talent amid ‘extraordinary’ claim

Man United are struggling to find the right candidate to head up the communications department because of the “extraordinary demands” of the job.

That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the unfilled role behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

Former comms chief Charlie Brooks resigned in February, with Andrew Ward promoted in his place.

But the Red Devils are still seeking a new candidate to fill a new, more broad role.

The Daily Mail reported on Sunday (10 July) that the club have rejected two executives put forward by headhunting firm Korn Ferry.

It is also understood that United have made targeted approaches to top comms specialists only to be knocked back.

Maguire claims that the demands of the job may simply be scaring off the best talent.

“It’s not an impossible job but United are in the news 24/7,” he told Football Insider’s Adam Williams.

“So, it’s a job where there is no off switch. That’s what makes it so challenging. For people wanting some form of work-life balance, that is going to be a struggle.

“There is also the fact that you have to answer to demands from the US as well as the UK. Everything has to be approved by Joel Glazer.

Man United

“It’s long hours. Yes, it will be well remunerated but it’s a very intense job. The demands are extraordinary.

“There is a very small pool of people who can do it and an even smaller pool of people who would want to do it given the degree of scrutiny that comes with every announcement the club makes.”

In other news, Gabby Agbonlahor can’t believe “strange” Erik ten Hag demand after behind-the-scenes Man United development.