Explained: How Man Utd poaching CEO Omar Berrada from Man City has improved relations between two bitter rivals

Berrada's extensive experience at City, where he served for 12 years and most recently held the position of chief football operations officer, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise which prompted United to get him on board. According to Daily Mail, when United approached City with their proposal about recruiting Berrada before Christmas, they received unexpected cooperation from their neighbours.

While there has been a clear desire from figures like Sir Jim Ratcliffe to challenge City's dominance, there's also recognition of the benefits of Manchester having two strong clubs with amicable professional relationships. Hence, despite being on gardening leave from his former club, Berrada has been allowed to familiarise himself with his new colleagues at Old Trafford. This suggests a potential shift towards a more collaborative approach between the crosstown rivals.

The surprise nature of Berrada's departure for United reportedly sent shockwaves through City's ranks and in Abu Dhabi, where the club was conducting a warm-weather training camp. However, chief executive Ferran Soriano and director of football Txiki Begiristain were aware of the development.

Berrada is expected to commence his duties at Old Trafford in the summer ahead of the 2024-25 season. His arrival may coincide with the appointment of a new sporting director, and he might have to make a pivotal decision regarding the future of Erik ten Hag, whose contract with United expires in 2025, if the team fails to achieve a European spot for next season.