Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada is standing firm on his ambitious aim to see the club back at the pinnacle of English football by 2028. This target, set to coincide with the club's 150th anniversary, comes despite the men's team enduring one of their worst seasons in recent history and the women's team facing stiff competition in the Women's Super League.
Berrada's vision, dubbed "Project 150," was initially shared with staff in September 2024. It establishes a series of targets within a specific timeframe to focus the club's efforts. Speaking to United We Stand fanzine, Berrada acknowledged the scale of the challenge, particularly after the men's team's disappointing 15th-place finish in the Premier League and Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. However, he remains resolute, stating, "Can the team win the Premier League title by 2028? Of course. We've just finished 15th and it seems an impossible task. But why not aim for it? Why not do everything in our power?"
The 2024/25 season saw Manchester United's men's team finish just above the relegation zone. The women's team, while more competitive, finished third in the WSL, a significant 16 points behind champions Chelsea, who also defeated them in the FA Cup final. To achieve Berrada's ambitious goal, both teams face considerable hurdles. The men's team must undergo a significant rebuild to compete with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. The women's team needs to find a way to overcome Chelsea's dominance.
Berrada believes that success is achievable with strategic planning and investment. He highlights the importance of focusing efforts and energy on specific goals within a defined timeframe. He also recognizes the need for prudence in the transfer market, balancing ambition with financial responsibility. Despite missing out on Champions League qualification, Berrada insists that the club has a clear plan to rebuild the squad under manager Ruben Amorim. This plan includes potential signings to strengthen the attack and midfield, focusing on technical quality, athleticism, and physical resilience. The club is also looking to streamline the squad, with several players potentially leaving to generate funds for new acquisitions.
Berrada's confidence in achieving the 2028 title target is a bold statement of intent. He understands the magnitude of the task, especially considering the club's recent struggles. The last time Manchester United won the Premier League was in Sir Alex Ferguson's final season in charge, back in 2012/13. Berrada hopes to replicate that success and restore Manchester United to their former glory.
Achieving this ambitious goal will require significant investment in players, infrastructure, and coaching staff. It will also require a cultural shift within the club, fostering a winning mentality and a commitment to excellence. While the challenge is immense, Berrada's unwavering belief in the club's potential provides a sense of optimism for the future. Whether "Project 150" will be a success remains to be seen, but Berrada's leadership and strategic vision offer a roadmap for Manchester United's journey back to the top of English football.
