Sir Jim Ratcliffe takes top Man Utd staff on Icelandic fishing trip - but decides against inviting Ruben Amorim ahead of first pre-season friendly

According to The Athletic, Ratcliffe invited Manchester United’s senior leadership, including Berrada and Wilcox, on a two-day fishing and strategy retreat in Iceland ahead of their pre-season clash with Leeds. The gathering included discussions on United’s long-term direction, held away from the traditional boardroom. Per the report, Amorim was initially considered but ultimately stayed in Manchester to oversee pre-season training.

Ratcliffe, a known fan of such off-site leadership retreats, is said to believe that relaxed environments encourage clearer decision-making. The Iceland trip follows a pattern of unconventional settings, including ski resorts, used to build INEOS' executive culture. It also underlines the hands-on approach Ratcliffe is bringing to his United project.

Ratcliffe is a passionate fly fisherman and has invested in Iceland’s Six Rivers Project to protect salmon populations. While business was front and centre, the trip also allowed Berrada and Wilcox to bond and align plans with Ratcliffe ahead of a crucial summer window. Amorim, meanwhile, remained at Carrington to lead the team’s final training session before flying out to Stockholm.

United will face off against Leeds in Stockholm on Saturday afternoon, offering fans a first look at the Red Devils' squad this season. Meanwhile, Berrada and Wilcox will rejoin the squad after their Icelandic getaway.