Juan Mata, Scott McTominay, and Marcus Rashford at the Aon Training Complex. (Courtesy of Manchester United)
Manchester United, the global soccer giant and perennial English Premier League contender, has renewed its partnership with Canon Medical Systems Europe. The company continues as the team’s official medical systems partner, and the sophisticated use of its imaging technology promises to offer the Red Devils a competitive advantage.
Canon, perhaps best known for its advanced photography equipment, acquired Toshiba Medical in 2016. Under terms of the initial partnership struck with Man U in 2013, Toshiba had installed advanced imaging technology—including CT, MRI, and ultrasound machines—at the club’s medical center at the Aon Training Complex. This new agreement includes an expansion of medical services, including more cardiac and general health screenings.
“During the past six years, our partnership has redefined the standard for medical imaging in elite sport,” said Dr. Steve McNally, Manchester United’s head of sports medicine and science, in a statement. “Daily access to state-of-the-art equipment and intelligent technologies has improved responsiveness to clinical presentations. Most importantly, we have developed a concept of ‘performance imaging’ over and above clinical diagnostics.
“By utilizing innovative techniques borne out of shared ideas and experiences from Canon Medical’s wider network of experts, we can now profile and monitor our players in ways we have never done before. This not only enhances athlete health and safety but also provides invaluable information to guide the athletic development process. As part of the partnership, we have also shared data that will assist in improving health services for the general public.”
SportTechie Takeaway
Manchester United’s 2018-19 payroll is said to be £137.3 million ($177.7 million), per Spotrac, so keeping players healthy is, of course, of great consequence. What’s unique here is McNally’s comment about “performance imaging.” The ability to improve physical development goes beyond medical assessments and taps a new frontier for this screening technology.
