Manchester United have appointed Dominic Jordan as its first Director of Data Science to drive forward the club’s use of data to help staff and players deliver success on the pitch.
Man United made the announcement in a statement via their website on Friday ahead of their away Premier League clash with Leicester City on October 16.
Jordan, an experienced data scientist, with a background in geospatial analytics, will be tasked with improving the way Man United connect and analyse the vast amounts of data generated across their football operations.
Welcoming Dominic to Man United, John Murtough, the club’s Football Director, said the appointment reflected the growing importance of data science across a range of areas within the Red Devils and its potential to provide a competitive advantage
“We already make extensive use of data to analyse players’ performance and physical condition, and to scout opponents and recruitment targets,” Murtough said.
“But there is huge potential to strengthen our existing capabilities and build new ones, as part of a more integrated approach to managing and using data.
“This is not about replacing the human elements of performance and decision-making,” Murtough added. “Coaches will always draw on their knowledge and judgment, and players their experience and instincts. But these things can be complemented by smart use of data.
“Ultimately, it’s about ensuring that players, coaches and support staff are equipped with the best possible information with which to make the right decisions quickly.”
