A Potential Return to Old Trafford
Former Manchester United defender Mikael Silvestre has publicly declared his interest in returning to Old Trafford, specifically seeking a role as a director of football. The Frenchman, who spent nine successful seasons with the club, indicated that he would welcome the opportunity to work alongside current manager Michael Carrick.
Speaking to Grosvenor Sport, Silvestre clarified that while he earned his coaching badges following his retirement in 2014, he has no intention of pursuing a career in the dugout. Instead, he has focused on front-office operations, having served as the director of football at Rennes and, most recently, at the Romanian club CFR Cluj.
Executive Ambitions
Silvestre noted that his transition into management was facilitated by completing a Master’s degree in sports management. While he plans to attend United matches and observe training sessions this September, he acknowledged the current administrative structure at the club. The director of football position is currently held by Jason Wilcox, who stepped into the role following the departure of Dan Ashworth.
The Frenchman is one of several former United stalwarts to express a desire to support Carrick. Wayne Rooney and Antonio Valencia have also publicly stated their willingness to return to the club in various capacities, citing their deep personal connection to the institution and their respect for the current leadership.
While Silvestre admitted that Carrick’s current coaching staff appears fully established, he remains an advocate for the club’s progress. His comments reflect a broader sentiment among former players who continue to monitor the club’s development closely, though he emphasized that any potential involvement would be conditional upon the right executive vacancy.