Sir Jim Ratcliffe could face an unexpected exit from Manchester United by the end of the year, despite his recent £1 billion investment for a 27.7% stake in the club.
The British billionaire, 72, has overseen major structural changes at Old Trafford since joining forces with the Glazer family, who still hold majority ownership.
Since taking control of football operations, Ratcliffe has implemented sweeping changes, including a boardroom overhaul, staff layoffs, a managerial switch, and several controversial financial decisions—such as increased ticket prices and the cancellation of the staff Christmas party.
He has also set plans in motion for a £2 billion, 100,000-seater stadium to replace the deteriorating Old Trafford.
However, reports from Bloomberg suggest that Ratcliffe’s tenure could be cut short, as the Glazers have an option to sell the club in six months. If they decide to move forward with a sale, they could force him out.
Ratcliffe, however, retains the right to submit his own bid and is reportedly keen on increasing his stake rather than relinquishing it.
The Glazers’ long-term intentions for United remain unclear. They have largely taken a hands-off approach, allowing Ratcliffe to handle day-to-day affairs. Despite this, the club’s financial struggles have worsened, with losses exceeding £100 million in Ratcliffe’s first year and overall debts now standing at approximately £700 million.
On the pitch, things have deteriorated further, with new manager Rúben Amorim unable to lift the team beyond 15th place in the Premier League.
Internally, the club has set an ambitious goal of winning the Premier League by 2028, but financial instability could pose significant challenges. Over the past three years, United has reported losses exceeding £300 million, putting them at risk of breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). If the Glazers decide to sell, finding a buyer willing to take on the club’s financial burdens could prove difficult.
One possible solution could come in the form of a state-backed bid, similar to the Qatari proposal that rivaled Ratcliffe’s last year. Speculation suggests that Qatar could revisit their interest in United, possibly led by Nasser Al-Khelaifi, chairman of beIN and Qatar Sports Investments.
Al-Khelaifi, who also serves as PSG president, has been involved in controversies within Ligue 1, including a public feud with Lyon owner John Textor and recent legal troubles linked to an “abuse of power” case.
Additionally, he has expressed frustration over PSG’s impending departure from the Parc des Princes, following the city mayor’s refusal to sell the stadium. With tensions mounting at PSG, a Qatari takeover of United could emerge as a viable new venture.
As uncertainty looms over Old Trafford, Ratcliffe’s fight to maintain his position and reshape Manchester United remains a compelling storyline. Whether the Glazers cash in or hold firm, the club’s future is poised for another dramatic twist.
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