Manchester United have issued a formal statement strongly emphasising their status as an "inclusive and welcoming club," in direct response to inflammatory immigration comments made by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The move comes after Ratcliffe, aged 73, claimed on Wednesday that the United Kingdom has been "colonised by immigrants," a remark that has provoked significant public backlash and internal concern.
Club Officials Express Mortification Over Ratcliffe's Views
As exclusively revealed by Daily Mail Sport, senior officials at Manchester United are reportedly "mortified" by Ratcliffe's controversial views. There are growing fears within the club about the potential impact on players and ambitious plans for a new £2 billion stadium, which could be jeopardised by the negative publicity surrounding the owner's statements.
Statement Released Without Direct Reference to Ratcliffe
On Thursday afternoon, the Red Devils released their own carefully worded statement opposing Ratcliffe's stance, albeit without explicitly naming him. The statement opens by declaring, "Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club." It further highlights the club's diverse composition of players, staff, and a global community of supporters, which it says reflects the history and heritage of Manchester—a city open to all.
The club underscored its long-standing commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, tracing it back to the launch of the "All Red All Equal" campaign in 2016. This initiative has been embedded into all aspects of the club's operations, from policies to cultural practices, and is reinforced by their holding of the Premier League's Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard.
Detailed Initiatives and Community Engagement
Throughout the current season, Manchester United has actively participated in numerous events and initiatives at both men's and women's games. These efforts have focused on key social issues, including mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ inclusion, the "No Room for Racism" campaign, addressing violence against women and girls, and combating homophobic chanting in stadiums.
Additionally, the club has celebrated various supporters' club events, such as the Disabled Supporters' Association's Christmas Party and the Jewish Supporters' Club's Chanukah celebration. Looking ahead, Manchester United has pledged to support further initiatives in these critical areas, demonstrating an ongoing dedication to fostering an inclusive environment.
The statement also praised the daily work of the Manchester United Foundation in and around Manchester, emphasising the club's role in reflecting the unity and resilience of the communities it represents. Manchester United concluded by reaffirming its commitment to representing its people, city, and fans with purpose and pride, signalling a clear stance against divisive rhetoric.
