Former Chelsea chief officially joins Manchester United

Manchester United have officially recruited a former Chelsea chief with more than 30 years of experience.

The move adds another figure with Stamford Bridge history to Old Trafford, two clubs whose rivalry became particularly fierce during the 2000s as Chelsea challenged Sir Alex Ferguson’s United for domestic supremacy.

There has also been considerable crossover between them.

Juan Mata became a fan favourite at both clubs, while Nemanja Matic, Romelu Lukaku, Juan Sebastian Veron and Radamel Falcao also represented each side.

Mason Mount made the direct journey from Chelsea to United in 2023, while Alejandro Garnacho later moved in the opposite direction.

The rivalry remains significant. Their last competitive meeting came at Stamford Bridge in April, when United secured a 1-0 victory over Chelsea through Matheus Cunha’s first-half goal.

That result moved Michael Carrick’s side ten points clear of Chelsea and strengthened United’s push towards Champions League qualification.

Now, somebody who previously held a senior position at Stamford Bridge has made the move to Manchester.

Former Chelsea chief makes Manchester United switch

The new arrival is Helen Summers, who has confirmed on LinkedIn that she has joined Manchester United as International Media Relations Executive.

Summers previously spent 17 months as Chelsea’s Chief Press Officer between May 2004 and September 2005, placing her at Stamford Bridge during the beginning of Jose Mourinho’s hugely successful first spell.

Her CV stretches far beyond Chelsea.

Summers has worked as Portsmouth’s Director of Communications, Lancashire FA’s Chief Communications Officer and International Media Senior Manager for the organisation responsible for delivering the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

She also held communications positions with UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and Qatar Airways.

Summers revealed that she has returned to full-time employment after taking a career break to care for her daughter.

After more than three decades working across football, sport and international communications, she described joining United as an exciting new chapter and thanked those at Carrington and Old Trafford for their welcome.