Reports suggest that significant changes are looming at Manchester United as prospective investor Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to make his mark on the Premier League giants.
The saga of a potential Manchester United takeover has been ongoing for almost a year, starting when the Glazer family explored “strategic alternatives” around the time Cristiano Ronaldo left the club.
Recent reports indicate that despite the club being on the market, the Glazers are reluctant to sell at their asking price. Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani’s bids fell short, leading to Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos being on the verge of acquiring a 25% stake.
With the purchase imminent, behind-the-scenes alterations are underway at Old Trafford. Chief executive Richard Arnold is set to depart, and interim CEO Patrick Stewart will oversee the transition as they search for a new chief executive.
Reports suggest Jean Claude Blanc is the likely replacement, having recently been involved with Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, with a link to Ratcliffe through overseeing Ineos’ sports portfolio.
Additionally, Manchester United is reportedly eyeing Paul Mitchell for the sporting director role. Mitchell, with experience at AS Monaco, Tottenham Hotspur, RB Leipzig, and Southampton, has long been linked to the club.
Discussions have also taken place with Michael Edwards, the former sporting director at Liverpool, who held key roles at Tottenham and Portsmouth.
The impending changes mark a new chapter for Manchester United under Ratcliffe’s ownership, with the aim of revitalizing the club’s position in English football.