Sir Jim Ratcliffe is poised to take the reins of Manchester United’s football department, with plans already underway at Old Trafford ahead of the January transfer window.
The CEO of Ineos, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has officially secured a £1.3 billion deal with the Glazers, giving him a 25% stake in the club. Alongside his colleagues, Ratcliffe will assume control of United’s football operations and inject an additional $300 million (£236 million) into the club. In a statement, he criticized the club’s recent transfer dealings and expressed his intention to unlock its potential for success.
While currently holding a 25% stake, Ratcliffe aims to become the majority owner of Manchester United. He pointed out that despite the club’s commercial success, it has not fully realized its potential in recent times.
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The focus now shifts to players who may not fit into Ratcliffe’s plans at Old Trafford, with seven key names emerging. Jadon Sancho, who has had a public falling out with manager Erik ten Hag, seems likely to depart in January, possibly rejoining Borussia Dortmund. Another player on the exit list is Anthony Martial, set to leave when his contract expires next summer.
Antony, Ten Hag’s significant signing, faces uncertainty due to underwhelming performances. Casemiro, despite an impressive debut, has seen a decline in form, and his £60 million arrival was privately criticized by Ratcliffe. Raphael Varane’s stock has plummeted, with links to Saudi Arabia intensifying as his contract approaches expiration in June. Victor Lindelof, often criticized for his performances, could also depart, with Ratcliffe adopting a more stringent approach to contracts.
Ratcliffe’s criticism of the club’s cultural failure and inconsistency aligns with his intention to bring about change through new ownership. The January transfer window is expected to see significant player movements as Ratcliffe begins reshaping Manchester United according to his vision.