Keith Wyness: 'I completely disagree' with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's latest Man United claim

Former Everton, Aston Villa, and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness has strongly disagreed with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent comments linking Manchester United's challenges to being "colonised by immigrants." Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Wyness criticized both Ratcliffe for the controversial statement and the Football Association (FA) for considering involvement[1].

Wyness argued that the FA should "stick to football and not get involved in issues like this," calling the organization a "very poor organisation" in handling such matters. He predicted the FA's response might be limited to a formal letter reminding Ratcliffe to "govern yourself accordingly," which he dismissed as inconsequential. "I think it’s dangerous for them to even get involved," Wyness stated on Football Insider's Inside Track podcast, adding black marks against both parties[1].

The controversy arises amid Ratcliffe's broader issues at Manchester United since INEOS took control. Wyness revealed that Ratcliffe's aggressive cost-cutting, including staff reductions in commercial departments, is severely impacting sponsor relationships. Ex-United employees told Wyness that key personnel who built "joined at the hip" ties with sponsors have been removed, making it hard to maintain deals[2].

United lost major sponsors like Marriott International after the 2024-25 season and Tezos (£24m/year training kit deal) last summer. The club lacks a training kit and shirt sleeve sponsor, with commercial income projected to drop this season. Wyness highlighted INEOS's strict contract enforcement—no "sweeteners" or extras allowed—contrasting past practices. Poor on-pitch performance has also hurt sponsor bonuses, compounding the commercial woes[2].

Wyness emphasized that while fiscal prudence is needed, the cuts have damaged customer service and revenue streams, painting a grim picture for United's finances[1][2].

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