Sir Dave Brailsford, the director of sport for Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group was spotted at Old Trafford during Manchester United’s 3-2 win against Aston Villa.

Ratcliffe is not in attendance for the clash, but former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar could be seen watching on as Erik ten Hag’s team attempted to secure a first Premier League win since December 6.

Brailsford served as performance director of British Cycling between 1997 and 2014, and was inducted into the British Cycling Hall of Fame for his role in transforming Team GB’s success at the Olympics.

Ratcliffe’s deal to purchase a minority stake in the club was confirmed on Sunday, with the 71-year-old becoming a minority owner of the club with a 25% stake.

INEOS group sporting Director Sir Dave Brailsford (centre) was in attendance for Manchester United’s clash with Aston Villa

The 59-year-old served as the performance director for British Cycling before being appointed as director of sport at INEOS in 2021

Ratcliffe said following the announcement: ‘As a local boy and a lifelong supporter, I am very pleased that we have been able to agree a deal with the Manchester United Board that delegates us management responsibility of the football operations of the Club. 

‘Whilst the commercial success of the club has ensured there have always been available funds to win trophies at the highest level, this potential has not been fully unlocked in recent times.

Read Related Also: Pep Guardiola confirms he will rotate his Manchester City side for their Champions League trip to Red Star Belgrade – with Matheus Nunes, Stefan Ortega and Oscar Bobb set to start

‘We will bring the global knowledge, expertise and talent from the wider INEOS Sport group to help drive further improvement at the club, while also providing funds intended to enable future investment into Old Trafford. 

‘We are here for the long term and recognise that a lot of challenges and hard work lie ahead, which we will approach with rigour, professionalism and passion. 

Brailsford is expected to play a prominent role with INEOS set to take over football operations at Manchester United

‘We are committed to working with everyone at the Club – the Board, staff, players and fans – to help drive the club forward. 

‘Our shared ambition is clear: we all want to see Manchester United back where we belong, at the very top of English, European and world football.’

The announcement was met with delight by some United fans on social media, though others insisted they would reserve judgement until the Glazers have departed the club.