Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has faced fresh fan criticism after supporters staged a protest against the club's ownership during Tuesday's Champions League comeback victory over Roma. The match, which ended a nine-game winless run for Michael Carrick's side, saw chants directed at both Ratcliffe and the Glazer family at Old Trafford.
United trailed 2-0 to the Italian side before a Bruno Fernandes penalty and a brace from Matheus Cunha secured three points. Despite the result, the atmosphere among fans remained tense, with the protest highlighting ongoing discontent with the club's leadership.
Ratcliffe's Earlier Exit Comments Resurface
The 74-year-old, who purchased an initial 25 per cent stake in United in December 2023, has previously stated he would leave his role if he became as unpopular with supporters as his fellow co-owners. His INEOS group oversees footballing decisions at Old Trafford.
Speaking to The Times last year, Ratcliffe acknowledged the criticism he has received. "I mean, I can put up with it for a while," he said. "I don't mind being unpopular because I get that nobody likes seeing Manchester United down where they are, and nobody likes the decisions we're having to make at the moment."
He added: "If I draw a bit of the ire, I can put up with that. But I'm no different to the average person. It's not nice, particularly for friends and family. So, eventually, if it reached the extent that the Glazer family have been abused, then I'd have to say, 'Look, enough's enough guys, let somebody else do this'."
Beckham Takeover Suggestion
Former Premier League striker Djibril Cisse has suggested that United legend David Beckham could be a successful replacement for Ratcliffe, should INEOS choose to sell their stake. The 51-year-old currently serves as a co-owner of MLS franchise Inter Miami.
"Could David Beckham replace the Glazers and INEOS at Manchester United? Why not?" Cisse said to Mr Gamble. "He's doing a good job at Inter Miami. He has an aura, he has a name, he's David Beckham, and he carries real weight in world football. So yes, why not?"
Cisse also called for his former Sunderland boss Roy Keane to be named United manager if Beckham were to launch a takeover. He added: "It would be another club legend coming back. If it were him and Roy Keane, that would be amazing. Keane has the weight of experience and history. He is a strong personality and he's an icon of the club."
United will hope to build on their victory against Roma when they face Aston Villa at the weekend.
