Man Utd announce ‘brutal’ sacking as Sir Jim Ratcliffe cuts create ‘tradition of concern’
Jackie Kay, the head of team operations, has been sacked by Manchester United as Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues his ruthless cost-cutting exercise at Old Trafford
Manchester United have axed long-standing staff member Jackie Kay, reportedly sparking unrest among the club’s workforce.
Controversial billionaire co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been wielding the axe at Old Trafford since taking the reins a year ago, cutting 250 jobs, showing club legend Sir Alex Ferguson the door as an ambassador, scrapping the Christmas festivities for employees, and ending freebies.With another 100 redundancies on the horizon, Ratcliffe’s “unpopular decisions” are aimed at revamping what he sees as a “mediocre” team he took over. But a ‘culture of fear’ is reportedly brewing among United staff, anxious about who’ll be next for the sack, reports the Mirror.Kay’s ousting as head of team operations after three decades has ruffled feathers internally. The Times earlier reported her exit as ‘brutal’, calling Kay “the oil in the machine” of the club, leaving colleagues ‘stunned’ and ‘upset’.The club has now made it official, with a spokesperson stating: “As part of the ongoing restructure of our operations, Jackie Kay is leaving Manchester United after almost 30 years of outstanding service to the club.
“Jackie started at Old Trafford in 1995 as an executive assistant through a period of historic success under Sir Alex Ferguson. In 2013 she moved to Carrington and served a succession of men’s managers, first as executive assistant and for the past 9 years heading first team operations.“In all her roles, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment and played a key part in the day-to-day life of Manchester United at Old Trafford, Carrington and on the road wherever the team was playing. We thank Jackie for everything she has done for the club and wish her the very best for the future. She will always be welcome at the club.”
Kay was an extremely popular figure at United and her departure marks a significant moment amidst the sweeping transformations initiated by Ratcliffe’s INEOS squad. Ashley Young, ex-United winger, once shared his appreciation for Kay’s essential role within the club.“She’s just brilliant,” he extolled. “She’s like the mum to everyone. If there are any problems or there is anything we need sorting out it’s a case of ‘Jackie can you do this’, ‘Jackie can you help with this’. I’m sure there are times when she looks at her phone when it’s ringing and she must think ‘no, I’m not answering’. But she’s always there for you.”
