Richard Arnold steps down as Manchester United chief executive

Richard Arnold has decided to step down as chief executive of Manchester United (Nick Potts/PA)

Richard Arnold is stepping down as Manchester United chief executive after less than two years in the job, with Patrick Stewart taking interim control as a permanent successor is sought.

Arnold has been with the Premier League club since 2007, working as commercial director before becoming group managing director in 2013.

The departure of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward saw him take up the role of chief executive in February 2022, but United have confirmed he is leaving his post.

Stewart, the club’s legal officer and general counsel, is stepping up as interim CEO at Old Trafford.

United said in a statement: “Richard Arnold has decided to step down as Chief Executive of Manchester United after 16 years with the club.

“Patrick Stewart will take over as interim CEO, in addition to his existing role as General Counsel, with Richard continuing to provide transitional support until the end of December.

“A search process will be carried out for a new permanent CEO.”

The development comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe edges closer to becoming minority shareholder of United.

Ratcliffe’s Ineos group is expected to pay in the region of £1.25billion for a 25 per cent stake in the Old Trafford club, while also acquiring significant control over footballing operations.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos group is expected to pay in the region of £1.25billion for a 25 per cent stake in United (PA)

PA understands no announcement about that deal is expected on Wednesday.

Sources close to Ineos indicated they were not involved in Arnold’s departure, but it seems likely that further change will be afoot once the deal is signed.

The 52-year-old outgoing chief