New Manchester United shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe has called on fans to be patient as he takes over the club's football operations. Ratcliffe, who bought a 25% stake in the Red Devils for around £1 billion, will undergo major reforms at Old Trafford, beating Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani. Although the Glazer family still controls the club, Ratcliffe has pledged to invest 2£3.6 billion to improve infrastructure at Old Trafford.
Ratcliffe has taken over Manchester United at a challenging time, and they currently sit eighth in the Premier League and face eliminations in Europe. Their road to League Cup glory has also come to an end, with their 13th defeat since 1930 just before Christmas. Ratcliffe's arrival has caused mixed feelings among Manchester United's supporters trust, as the Glazer family still exists and has decision-making power.
In an open letter to fans, Ratcliffe acknowledged that it could take time to change the club's fortunes, but underlined Ineos' commitment to a long-term vision. He expressed ambition to bring sporting and commercial success to Manchester United and recognised the responsibility that comes with the role. Ratcliffe's 25% stake has had little impact on the club's funding for the winter transfer business, with the focus shifting to purging unwanted players. Possible departures include Jadon Sancho, Casemiro, Doni van de Beek, Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial, with Donny van de Beek rumoured to be on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt.