UNITED HIRE 50 NEW SCOUTS
MANCHESTER UNITED have appointed 50 new scouts in a matter of months as part of a rigorous revamp at the club. One of the main findings from United’s root-and-branch review of the academy and recruitment was the need for more talent-spotters across the globe. New staff have been hired on every continent in a bid to beat rivals to the world’s new young stars. Recruitment for the first team and academy — now run by former player Nicky Butt — comes under a single umbrella. Previously, United had operated with a tight-knit team reporting directly to management, particularly in the sir alex Ferguson era. executive vice-chairman ed Woodward sanctioned the move and United have hired 50 scouts since January, with help from headhunters Nolan Partners. according to Dutch newspaper AD, Marcel Bout — formerly louis van Gaal’s opposition scout — has also been promoted as part of the restructure and is now head of global scouting. he is working alongside chief scout Jim lawlor. It is understood that Bout sought Van Gaal’s blessing to stay at United after the former manager was sacked at the end of last season. Van Gaal had no problem with the 53-year-old working for new boss Jose Mourinho. Few of the new scouting appointments have been announced, though Belgian armand Benneker, formerly at swiss club st Gallen, is the latest arrival. Dutchmen henny de Regt and Roy Beukenkamp, along with Dane henny de Regt are already working in the new set-up. Derek langley, former head of recruitment who left United in July, is believed to have taken a job with a top management agency.