Manchester United has enlisted the expertise of Harry Marra, a legendary athletics coach, in a bid to elevate the team’s performance on the pitch. The 78-year-old American is regarded as one of the greatest coaches in athletics, known for his successful partnership with decathlete Ashton Eaton.
Under Marra’s guidance, Eaton won Olympic gold at both the London and Rio Games and set world records in the decathlon and indoor heptathlon. Marra also worked with Eaton’s wife, Brianne Theisen-Eaton, who won Olympic bronze in Rio and earned multiple World Championship medals.
Though Marra is now in the twilight of his career, his reputation precedes him. He spent several weeks with Manchester United recently, with his presence sparking excitement among staff and players. Marra’s arrival follows a long-standing tradition at United of bringing in experts from other sports to enrich the team’s preparation.
Marra’s credentials include winning the IAAF Coaching Achievement Award in 2016 and working with teams like Indonesia’s track and field squad and Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants as a speed and fitness consultant.
United manager Ruben Amorim is eager to push his players to new levels of fitness. He has emphasized the importance of running and stamina, stating that winning the Premier League requires a team that is relentless in their movement. Amorim is determined to ensure his squad can handle the physical demands of his playing style, which requires immense work rate.
As Amorim put it, “Impossible to win the Premier League without a team that doesn’t run. We have to run like mad dogs, if not we won’t win.” With Marra’s vast experience in enhancing athletic performance, Manchester United is looking to ensure their players are up to the challenge.