Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is anticipated to finalize his acquisition of a 25% stake in Manchester United this week, marking the end of a lengthy takeover process that spanned the entirety of 2023. Following the withdrawal of Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani’s proposal for a full takeover of Man United, Ratcliffe emerged unopposed to secure a minority share of the club. The deal is expected to be valued at approximately £1.3 billion and grants Ratcliffe’s group control over Man United’s “football operations.” Ratcliffe’s arrival could lead to significant changes at Old Trafford, as he aims to introduce his own staff at the club. This has raised questions about the positions of director of football John Murtough and deputy Andy Boyle, which are reportedly under scrutiny.
According to iNews, there is admiration for Newcastle’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, within Ratcliffe’s circles. However, pursuing Ashworth, formerly associated with Brighton & Hove Albion, would be met with strong resistance and require a substantial compensation fee.
Former British Cycling performance director Sir Dave Brailsford has been linked to a role at Manchester United by The Times, as has former Paris Saint-Germain chief executive Jean-Claude Blanc, who is now part of the Ineos organization. Additionally, former Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards and Monaco sporting director Paul Mitchell have been mentioned in discussions about potential appointments.