Manchester United’s ownership situation remains a hot topic in the football world, stirring deep frustration among fans and drawing attention from former legends of the club.
Since acquiring the club in 2005, the Glazer family has remained at the center of fan criticism, largely due to financial decisions seen as prioritizing profit over performance.
The Glazers’ management has long been associated with a lack of transparency, rising debt levels, and inconsistent sporting success, leading many supporters to demand a full change in leadership.
In late 2022, the Glazers announced they were open to “strategic alternatives” for Manchester United’s future.
While that wording was deliberately vague, it left room for speculation. Options on the table reportedly included selling a minority stake or a complete sale of the club.
For hopeful fans, this announcement represented a potential turning point. However, as time passed without concrete action or commitment, anxiety and suspicion grew stronger.
Two high-profile individuals emerged as leading contenders to purchase the club.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire CEO of INEOS, and Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, a wealthy Qatari banker, submitted competing bids. Sir Jim initially proposed a full takeover, but in 2023, he altered his proposal to acquire only a 25% stake.
This revised offer was eventually accepted, allowing Ratcliffe and INEOS to take control of football-related operations, while the Glazers still maintain overall authority.
In contrast, Sheikh Jassim aimed for a 100% buyout. His offer promised sweeping reforms: paying off the club’s debt, improving infrastructure, and restoring United’s elite standing.
However, his bid was withdrawn in October 2023 after the Glazers declined to relinquish full control. This outcome was deeply disappointing for fans who saw Sheikh Jassim’s proposal as the best route to complete transformation.
The partial deal with Ratcliffe sparked further discontent. Supporters feared that the Glazers retaining majority control would prolong the same issues that have plagued the club for years.
Demonstrations and chants demanding full ownership change intensified during home games, highlighting the widening gap between the fanbase and the boardroom.
Adding weight to the conversation, club legend David Beckham shared his perspective during the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Qatar.
Without directly naming the Glazers, Beckham emphasized Manchester United’s urgent need for strong leadership and long-term stability.
When asked about Sheikh Jassim, Beckham acknowledged that every fan has their preference but stressed that whoever leads the club next must truly value its history, supporters, and future.
He also sympathized with Erik ten Hag, citing the turmoil behind the scenes as a major challenge for any manager trying to succeed on the pitch.
