In November of the previous year, the Glazer family expressed their intent to explore various options for Manchester United, their controversially owned club for the past 18 years. These options ranged from a complete takeover to minority investment deals, attracting potential buyers like Jim Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Al Thani.
Despite bids from Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim, the Glazers, valuing United between £6-£10 billion, found the offers falling short. Sheikh Jassim’s best bid of £5 billion led to his withdrawal, while Ratcliffe proposed purchasing a 25% stake, valuing the club higher overall, with the Glazers retaining majority ownership.
Ratcliffe’s flexible strategy includes starting with a smaller stake but with a long-term goal of becoming the majority owner. Meanwhile, David M. Cooperman’s recent acquisition of shares, valued at £13.5 million, doesn’t significantly alter the broader landscape at Old Trafford.
Co-chairman Avram Glazer had divested over £70 million worth of his shares in 2021, showing a precedent for the current owners to divest portions of the club. Ratcliffe’s involvement extends beyond a financial investment; the British businessman, along with Joel Glazer and Sir Dave Brailsford, will form a leadership trio. Brailsford, known for cycling success, has been Ratcliffe’s director of sport at INEOS since 2021.
Richard Arnold, as chief executive, will oversee day-to-day business operations, and Paul Mitchell, a highly regarded talent scout, is expected to become the new sporting director responsible for player recruitment and development.
These moves signify an evolving landscape and potential shifts in the ownership and management structure of Manchester United.
