Exclusive: Sir Jim Ratcliffe Could Step Back at Man United After INEOS Crisis

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe may reduce his hands-on involvement at Old Trafford amid escalating challenges at his conglomerate, INEOS, according to insider reports.[5]

Ratcliffe, who acquired a 27.7% stake in United in late 2023, has spearheaded a major overhaul of the club's football operations since then. He has driven cost-cutting measures, structural reforms, and key personnel changes, including the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager.[1][3] His trusted lieutenant, Sir Dave Brailsford, has played a pivotal role in this restructuring but is reportedly set to return to a senior INEOS role, signaling a potential reshuffle at United.[2]

The catalyst for Ratcliffe's possible step back is an ongoing crisis at INEOS, his chemical manufacturing empire. While specifics remain under wraps, the company's demands are pulling Ratcliffe's focus away from football. This comes as Ratcliffe juggles multiple ownership interests, including Ligue 1 side OGC Nice, where recent turmoil led to the sacking of head coach Franck Haise and president Fabrice Bocquet. Veteran manager Claude Puel was swiftly appointed to stabilize the club.[1]

At United, progress has been mixed. The team sits 15th in the Premier League after a dismal Europa League final loss, prompting calls for bold transfer moves. Speculation swirls around record-breaking bids for stars like Jude Bellingham (€150 million from Real Madrid), though Ratcliffe has blocked pursuits of aging La Liga goalscorers admired by Amorim.[2][3][4] Potential exits of high-earners like Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are on the horizon to fund reinforcements.[2]

Sources indicate Ratcliffe's divided attention across INEOS, Nice, and United underscores the complexities of multi-club ownership. A retreat from daily United duties could reshape the board, with Brailsford's departure highlighting shifting priorities. United fans, promised evolution under INEOS, await clarity on whether this signals deeper instability or strategic recalibration.[1][2][5]

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