Before entering Manchester United's capital, the founder and owner of the Ineos group already owned Nice from the French league and Lausanne from the Swiss championship.
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British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, the owner of the multinational chemical company Ineos, has been confirmed as a new co-owner of Manchester United.
This significant development comes after receiving the green light from both the English Football Association and the Premier League. Manchester United, home to notable Portuguese internationals like Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, shared that Ratcliffe has acquired a 25% stake in the club. This move has been finalized with all necessary approvals from the English Football Association, Premier League, and the British market authorities.
Local media reports suggest that Ratcliffe's investment in the club amounts to approximately 185 million euros. This substantial financial injection is designated for enhancing the football team's capabilities and competitiveness. Furthermore, an additional investment of 100 million euros is anticipated by the end of the year. This forthcoming investment is specifically allocated for the modernization of Old Trafford Stadium and the improvement of the club's overall infrastructure.
Prior to this investment in Manchester United, Ratcliffe, through his Ineos group, had already ventured into the sports world by acquiring Nice in the French league and Lausanne in the Swiss championship. This expansion into football underscores Ratcliffe's growing influence and interest in the sport.
Despite Ratcliffe's entry into the ownership structure, the American Glazer family continues to hold the majority stake in Manchester United. However, in November 2022, the Glazers announced their openness to selling all or part of their stake in the club. With Ratcliffe's acquisition, there appears to be a significant shift in the club's governance, as the responsibility for the football team's future success now also rests with Ratcliffe. This partnership signals a new era for Manchester United, with expectations of strategic investments aimed at propelling the club back to the forefront of both English and European football.
