Not a big name, but respected at Man City: Irishman Fergal Harkin becomes Roches’ new sporting director | Jupiler Pro League

The new standard is finally taking shape. It was already known that the standard was on the verge of strengthening with foreign TD. According to our information, he is Fergal Harkin. Not the biggest name in world football, but he is a respected hub in the City network.

The former Leicester City and Bohemians player has a master’s degree in business studies and has spent six years working for Nike after his active career. In 2009, Harkin was appointed by Manchester City. There he held various positions. He worked in scouts and looked after players on loan and was then promoted to Pathway and Partnership Manager. An extensive role in which he led the eight City loan managers and led a team of video analysts, physical therapists, fitness trainers, psychologists and dietitians.

Harkin previously turned down an offer to work for Lommel, which belongs to the city network. He was still pictured at Celtic last year to become the sporting director. The Scottish top club had good experiences with Jason Denayer and John Gedetti, two players who ended up in Glasgow via City. Harkin eventually declined the offer.

Standard now knows how to seduce him. The Roach family is on their way to a real revolution this summer. Miami-based investment fund 777 Partners acquired the club from Bruno Finanzi in mid-March. The main goal is to get Standard back to the Belgian top, but in the US they are gradually realizing that this will take time.

Harkin should start immediately in Liège. For example, after the recent dismissal of Luca Elsner, he has to appoint a new head coach. And talks with the remaining three candidates are in their final stage.

There are also a lot of players who don’t know where they stand yet. For example, the priority is to extend the contract of Nicholas Raskin (contract until mid-2023), but this is a difficult task. Many players have reached the end of their cycle, hoping to leave. In addition, the core must be strengthened. There are five or six names featured, although within 777 the current selection is considered to have enough qualities to finish in the top eight.

To Harkin, who did not take the ultimate sporting responsibility, to make the decision. Standard is expected to announce its arrival early this week.