BREAKING NEWS:Sir Jim Ratcliffe has left the club with an immediate effect as the New owners are set to takeover the club as New Owners.

Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani, a well-known Qatari banker, has previously outlined an ambitious strategy for Manchester United amid growing rumors that the Glazer family may sell their entire stake in the club. Bloomberg reports that a potential 2024 deal between INEOS and the Glazers could eventually result in the American owners selling all their shares later this year. This arrangement could lead to either a majority or complete takeover, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe holding the first right of refusal on any remaining Glazer shares.

Ratcliffe has expressed his desire to fully take control of Manchester United, although it remains unclear how fans would react to such a move. If the Glazers decide to sell their remaining shares in 2025, many believe Sheikh Jassim will attempt another full takeover. Sources indicate that he was disappointed after losing to Ratcliffe in the last bidding process but remains a loyal supporter of the club, suggesting he might re-enter the negotiations.

In February 2023, Sheikh Jassim’s Nine Two Foundation made a bid to purchase Manchester United, offering a detailed plan for the club’s future. The proposal aimed at restoring the club’s former glory by eliminating all debt while making significant investments in both the men’s and women’s teams, enhancing training facilities, redeveloping Old Trafford, and improving the fan experience. Additionally, the foundation promised to support local communities, reinforcing a commitment to the club’s impact beyond football. Their vision was to position Manchester United as the leading football club in the world. However, it is still unclear whether Sheikh Jassim will have another opportunity to bring this vision to life.

Meanwhile, in December 2023, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS Group acquired a 25% stake in Manchester United. The transaction involved purchasing both Class B and Class A shares at $33.00 per share, totaling around £1.03 billion. This deal provided INEOS with a significant minority stake and control over the club’s football operations. As part of the agreement, INEOS also committed an additional $300 million for future developments at Old Trafford, signaling a long-term approach to the club’s growth.

Ratcliffe’s first year as a minority owner has proven difficult. Cost-cutting initiatives, such as staff layoffs and ticket price hikes, have caused dissatisfaction among employees and supporters. On the field, despite substantial investments in new players and managerial changes, Manchester United has struggled, currently positioned 15th in the league and far from securing a Champions League spot. This poor performance, coupled with unpopular financial decisions, has led to criticism from fans and the local community. Some supporters have even drawn comparisons between Ratcliffe’s management and that of the Glazers, whose ownership has faced significant criticism over the years. As tensions escalate, speculation about Manchester United’s future ownership remains a central topic of discussion.