According to recent reports, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is showing a strong interest in parting ways with two Manchester United players due to what he perceives as “inflated contracts.”
A formal statement released on the club’s official website has confirmed that “Sir Jim Ratcliffe has completed the acquisition of 25% of the club’s Class B shares and 25% of its Class A shares, following the fulfillment of all conditions, including approvals from the Football Association and the Premier League.” This development, jointly acknowledged by Manchester United plc (NYSE: MANU) and Trawlers Limited—a company fully owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe—marks a significant transition in the club’s ownership structure.
As part of this transition, Ratcliffe and his INEOS team are set to take charge of the team’s football operations, while the Glazer family will retain control of the business-related aspects of the club. One of the immediate strategies outlined by Ratcliffe and his associates involves streamlining the club’s wage bill by offloading certain players during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Reports suggest that INEOS is particularly focused on reducing expenditures related to players they believe are on “inflated contracts,” citing French defender Raphael Varane and Brazilian midfielder Casemiro among their potential targets for departure, as reported by iNews.
Raphael Varane, previously associated with Real Madrid, is expected to depart in the summer upon the expiration of his contract. On the other hand, Casemiro, the 32-year-old midfield stalwart, has purportedly attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, igniting speculation regarding his future at Old Trafford.
The managerial realm has also been a topic of discussion amidst Manchester United’s recent challenges under Erik ten Hag. The team’s current standing in sixth place in the Premier League standings paints a grim picture for their chances of qualifying for the prestigious Champions League in the upcoming season.
After a disappointing 1-1 draw with Burnley at Old Trafford, discontent among some fans manifested audibly through jeers at the final whistle, reflecting the frustration with the team’s performance. Manager Erik ten Hag addressed the match’s outcome, acknowledging that every team faces moments of vulnerability but also highlighting the team’s consistent efforts and creativity on the field.
Despite the setback, Ten Hag remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the need for composure and focus moving forward. He pointed out the entertaining style of play and the promising display seen in the second half of the match as indicators of the team’s potential to bounce back and perform at their best in upcoming fixtures.