Man Utd turn to artificial intelligence?! Red Devils enter agreement with top university to harness power of new technology before Premier League rivals

The Red Devils have forged a strategic partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University’s Institute of Sport to elevate the club's performance, leveraging AI. The partnership grants Manchester United access to the institute’s research and innovation studies which focus on utilising AI to develop advanced analysis techniques and metrics not yet employed by other top-flight football clubs.

AI will empower United's team of analysts to process a growing volume of data rapidly during matches. This real-time analysis will inform crucial decisions made by manager Erik ten Hag and the coaching staff. The use of AI includes player tracking and combining data across different game phases to optimise strategies. Live feedback will also serve to identify warning signs that could potentially lead to injuries. The new techniques will undergo trials during training sessions, where overhead drones routinely film first-team activities at Carrington. Once validated, these AI-driven methods will be integrated into actual match scenarios.

United’s football director John Murtough said: "Working with the Institute of Sport will build on our excellent existing research and innovation teams to further enhance the performance and development support that we can provide for our players."

Professor Tim Cable, the institute’s director, added: "Our collaboration with Manchester United has enabled us to attract world-leading talent into Manchester and bring our state-of-the-art scientific research to address the performance needs of the club. The initiative will provide the club with an added layer of intelligence, further strengthening Manchester United’s football operations."

The institute's project aims to delve deeply into the technical, tactical, and physical aspects of elite football, utilising AI to create a tangible advantage on the pitch. However, there will be continued importance of expert analysts who will interpret the data and communicate insights to the coaching staff for better decision-making. This strategic move showcases United's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance performance as they continue to struggle under Ten Hag. They will be back in action against Newport County in an FA Cup fourth-round clash on January 28.