A Manchester United board member has officially started his new role as chief executive of a major sporting league, marking another significant appointment involving a figure associated with Old Trafford.

The development comes during a turbulent period for United, with the club’s leadership facing increasing scrutiny following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 campaign.

Michael Carrick’s side have struggled to find consistency, with Tuesday’s 2-0 Champions League defeat against Atletico Madrid intensifying concerns about the direction of the club.

Following the defeat, Lisandro Martinez publicly criticised United’s hierarchy, questioning whether Carrick had received sufficient backing from senior figures.

The Argentine specifically challenged technical director Jason Wilcox, declaring: “I expect more from our technical director.”

Martinez subsequently released an Instagram statement, explaining that his comments came from frustration while accepting responsibility for the players’ performances.

Meanwhile, English football’s governing structures have also attracted considerable attention following Manchester City’s guilty verdict over serious financial breaches.

The Premier League confirmed that an independent commission would determine the punishment at a separate hearing, with potential sanctions including points deductions and substantial fines.

Against that backdrop, another figure with longstanding connections to Manchester United has begun a new chapter in sports administration.

Manchester United board member begins CEO role

Ian Nolan has officially started his role as chief executive of the Rugby Football League, having taken up the position earlier this month.

As previously covered by Centre Devils, Nolan was appointed to the position earlier this year following his departure from Manchester United in 2025.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Nolan remains a board member of the Manchester United Foundation, having held the position since November 2024.

He previously spent seven years at Old Trafford, overseeing the club’s global media operations, digital platforms and content strategy.

Nolan has now celebrated his arrival at the Rugby Football League on LinkedIn, highlighting record attendances, digital engagement and the sport’s growing popularity.

His appointment represents another significant step in his career, although his continuing board position concerns United’s charitable foundation rather than the football club’s main board.