Manchester United co-owner Avram Glazer has made a rare public comment about the club as fan anger over the ownership intensifies. Speaking at Deutsche Bank's inaugural Sports Investment Conference in London in September, Glazer reportedly insisted that the club's commercial appeal is not tied to on-pitch performance.
The Red Devils currently sit 17th in the Premier League table, above the relegation zone only on goal difference. A 10-match winless run ended on Tuesday evening with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over AS Roma in the Champions League, having trailed 2-0. The result eased some pressure on manager Michael Carrick, but it did not silence supporters.
Protests Continue Despite Victory
Fans have directed chants at Glazer, co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director Jason Wilcox. During the Roma match, supporters released green and gold balloons in the Stretford End and threw tennis balls onto the pitch, briefly stopping play. Similar protests were heard during recent Premier League defeats to Bournemouth and Chelsea.
According to The Athletic, Glazer told financiers that United's brand strength remains substantial, drawing parallels with the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys, who remain global brands despite recent trophy droughts. The club's commercial revenue continues to generate significant income, and Glazer is said to have given assurances that dismal results will not dent that clout.
Sale Conditions and Managerial Turnover
Supporters have demanded the Glazers sell the club for over 15 years, but an absence of buyer interest has reportedly blocked any sale. ESPN reports that two scenarios could persuade the family to reconsider: completion of the new Old Trafford stadium, or Manchester City's expulsion from the Premier League. City are awaiting the outcome of their appeal against a guilty verdict on 114 breaches of Premier League financial rules; a failed appeal could bring expulsion or a points deduction that would relegate them.
Either outcome would boost United's market value, potentially prompting the Glazers to offload the club. Reports suggest the family are unhappy with the club's trajectory following Ratcliffe's investment. United have appointed three permanent managers since Ratcliffe invested in 2023: Erik ten Hag was dismissed months after a new contract, Ruben Amorim lasted just over a year before his sacking last January, and Carrick was appointed permanently during the summer after an initial temporary spell. Each received substantial transfer backing, though many expensive signings have failed to make an impact.
