Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stance on Man Utd takeover proves Gary Neville’s worst worries
According to French reports, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS remain unaware of the Glazer family’s intentions for Manchester United’s future, confirming Gary Neville’s fears.
In November 2022, the Glazers confirmed that they were investigating “strategic alternatives” that could include a sale. There was optimism that the process could be completed by the end of the 2022-23 season, but the fans are in the dark.
INEOS CEO Ratcliffe and Qatari financier Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani are the two remaining candidates.
The club’s proprietors may still choose to remain involved in some capacity, whether as owners with outside investment or by retaining a minority stake.
“What you want from leaders is good, clear communication,” Neville told The Observer.
“The Glazers behave in the exact contrary manner. They are in a position of authority and are responsible for a community – United’s supporters are a global community – but the Glazers have not communicated with them in nearly 20 years.
“The length of the sale process has become intolerable, everyone is in the shadows, and this is symptomatic. They must leave, but I lack confidence that they will do the right thing.”
Fresh reports from L’Equipe (via Get French Football News) indicate that INEOS will be unable to make transfer plans for Nice, the club they presently own, until Ratcliffe’s bid for Manchester United is finalized.
The reports indicate that the Glazers are keeping prospective owners in the shadows, just as Neville feared.
If Ratcliffe’s bid is successful, he is anticipated to acquire a majority stake in the company. Sheikh Jassim has proposed a complete takeover in an effort to acquire Manchester United.
Mid-June reports indicated that both parties continue to discuss their respective proposals.
The Telegraph reported earlier this month that Ratcliffe recently traveled to New York for negotiations as he continues to pursue a takeover.
Ratcliffe announced in a statement that accompanied the initial bid, “We would see our role as the long-term stewards of Manchester United on behalf of the fans and the wider community.”
“Because we are ambitious and fiercely competitive, we would like to invest in Manchester United to make them the world’s top club once again.
“We also acknowledge that the governance of football in this nation is at a crossroads. We would like to advance the ethos of English football by transforming the club into a model for a modern, progressive, fan-centric approach to ownership.
“We want a Manchester United anchored in its proud history and roots in the North-West of England, putting Manchester back into Manchester United, and clearly focusing on winning the Champions League.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s stance on Man Utd takeover proves Gary Neville’s worst worries