Man Utd's backroom overhaul continues! Two key medical staff depart Old Trafford as INEOS shakeup gathers pace

Among the latest developments at United according to The Daily Mail, the club is set to part ways with two long-serving first-team physios, Richard Merron and John Davin, marking a pivotal moment in the overhaul of their medical department. Merron, who has dedicated 23 years to the Red Devils and served as a first-team physio since 2017, along with John Davin, a stalwart of the medical staff since June 1997, will be leaving the club.

The restructuring efforts are being spearheaded by Gary O’Driscoll, who joined from Arsenal as head of sports medicine last September. Since his arrival, O’Driscoll has been instrumental in reshaping the medical department, bringing in Jordan Reece from Arsenal as the new head physio, replacing Robin Sadler. Ibrahim Keren has also transitioned from the women’s team to a key role with the first team, while Neil Hough has departed from his position in the academy.

O’Driscoll’s tenure has been focused on addressing the fitness challenges that plagued Manchester United in the previous season, with the team suffering from nearly 70 separate cases of injury or illness. Despite the injuries, the departures of Merron and Davin are not attributed to personal blame but are part of a broader strategy to enhance the club’s sports medicine capabilities.

On the coaching front, new assistants Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake, along with goalkeeper coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar, have joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff. This transition marks the beginning of a new era as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Mitchell van der Gaag and goalkeeper coach Richard Hartis are among those departing, with Steve McClaren expected to take on a new role within the coaching setup.

As the restructuring unfolds, Ineos remains focused on building a sustainable framework for success, blending tradition with modernization to propel the club to new heights in domestic and European football. Further announcements regarding the restructuring, including the confirmation of personnel changes and broader operational adjustments, are expected to follow deep into the 2024-25 campaign.