Manchester United enters deal to sell 25% stake to UK billionaire

The deal involves an investment of $300 million in the club's Old Trafford stadium, with $200 million to be provided upon completion and an additional $100 million by the end of 2024. The total value of the deal is around $1.6 billion.

Ratcliffe, who owns petrochemicals giant INEOS, competed with Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani for the stake, ultimately securing it after Sheikh Jassim withdrew his bid.

“As a local boy and a lifelong supporter of the club, I am very pleased that we have been able to agree a deal with the Manchester United Board that delegates us management responsibility of the football operations of the club,” Ratcliffe said.

The deal, subject to Premier League approval, will be funded without debt by Ratcliffe's company, Trawlers Limited.

Transformative investment

Manchester United has been seeking new investment following declining on-field performance since Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013, leading to fan dissatisfaction with the Glazer family's ownership.

The Glazers announced plans to seek investment in November last year, leading to Ratcliffe's successful bid. Ratcliffe's involvement is expected to significantly change the club's management and operations, though the Glazers will remain in overall charge.

The announcement has elicited mixed reactions from fans and stakeholders, highlighting ongoing debates about the club's future and governance. Ratcliffe's investment is a potential turning point for the club, aiming to revitalize its sporting success and address longstanding concerns about management and financial practices.

Also, we recently wrote that Manchester United's Harry Maguire has been named the Premier League's Player of the Month for November.