December 26, (THEWILL) – Sir Jim Ratcliffe, founder and chairman of INEOS, has published an open letter calling for unity following his recent purchase of a minority stake in Manchester United. The deal, announced on December 24, sees Ratcliffe gain control over football operations while the Glazer family retains ownership.
In the letter, addressed to the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST), Ratcliffe reaffirms his commitment to restoring the club to its former glories. “I believe we can bring sporting success on the pitch to complement the undoubted commercial success that the club has enjoyed,” he writes. “It will require time and patience alongside rigour and the highest level of professional management.”
Ratcliffe acknowledges the expectations of United’s passionate global fanbase. “You are ambitious for Manchester United and so are we. There are no guarantees in sport, and change can inevitably take time but we are in it for the long term and together we want to help take Manchester United back to where the club belongs, at the very top of English, European and World Football.”
The letter comes in response to a statement from MUST calling for open dialogue and demanding proof that the takeover will benefit on-field performances. While welcoming Ratcliffe’s investment, the trust expressed scepticism over the Glazers’ continued majority ownership.
Avram and Joel Glazer will remain in charge at Old Trafford, while Ratcliffe, takes responsibility for restoring United’s sporting success. With the club languishing in fifth place halfway through the 2023/2024 season, fans are impatient to see signs of progress. Ratcliffe’s letter indicates an understanding of their frustrations and a willingness to engage.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
