Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made his position clear regarding the Glazer family as new reports emerge about potential Manchester United stake sales. The British billionaire, who acquired a 27.7 per cent stake in the club for £1.25 billion in February 2024, maintains a professional working relationship with the Glazers, despite ongoing speculation about their future involvement.
Glazer Family Internal Discussions
According to Bloomberg, several Glazer family members have held internal discussions about selling their stakes after 20 years of ownership. However, these talks are not unanimous, with some members opposing a sale, which could complicate any potential deal. Prospective buyers would face a significant price tag, as Mirror Football reported last October that the Glazers would only consider offers exceeding £5 billion for their stake.
The valuation reportedly factors in the potential worth of a new 100,000-seater stadium. Currently, Avram and Joel Glazer serve as executive co-chairmen, while Kevin, Bryan, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz, and Edward Glazer are board directors.
Ratcliffe's View on the Glazers
In a 2025 interview with The Times, Ratcliffe praised the Glazers, stating, "They're really good on the commercial side." He added, "They're the nicest people on the planet. There isn't a bad bone in Joel Glazer's body." Describing their partnership as professional and straightforward, Ratcliffe noted, "They could have given us a bloody hard time after we cocked up with Dan Ashworth and Erik ten Hag, but didn't."
Apology Over Immigration Comments
Despite his high regard for the Glazers, Ratcliffe was forced to apologise after sparking outrage by claiming immigrants had "colonised" the UK. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called for an apology, which Ratcliffe issued. The Glazers expressed serious concerns about the impact of his remarks on United's sponsor relations and stadium plans.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham condemned the comments as "inaccurate, insulting, and inflammatory." Burnham has collaborated with Ratcliffe and United on proposals to redevelop Old Trafford or build a new £1 billion stadium, a project the Glazers believe is crucial for boosting the club's value.
In his apology statement, Ratcliffe said, "I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people. My intention was to stress that governments must manage migration alongside investment in skills, industry, and jobs."
