As Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS company prepares to acquire a significant 25% stake in Manchester United, past criticism from OGC Nice captain Dante regarding Ratcliffe’s ownership of the Ligue 1 club has resurfaced.
The imminent purchase of a quarter of Man Utd’s shares by INEOS, at a rate of $33 per share, has sparked excitement among the fanbase, hopeful that this move will reduce the influence of the often-criticized Glazer family at Old Trafford. However, Dante’s earlier comments in a L’Equipe interview shed light on potential challenges associated with Ratcliffe’s ownership.
Dante, who currently serves as the captain of Nice and has been part of the club since Ratcliffe’s acquisition in 2019, openly criticized INEOS’ management of the Nice “project.” He expressed concerns about the high number of player transfers, both incoming and outgoing, suggesting that such extensive changes have impeded the club’s progress.
In Dante’s words, “To maintain a project, maybe you need to speak less about objectives and work in silence to create an environment of competitors. Because the expectation is even bigger, and then after, people are frustrated.”
Highlighting the substantial player turnover during the last summer transfer window, Dante emphasized the challenges of maintaining stability in such conditions. He urged for better organization and foresight to achieve higher goals and cautioned against repeating past mistakes.
Dante’s insights into the difficulties faced by OGC Nice under INEOS ownership may provide a nuanced perspective for Manchester United fans anticipating the changes that Ratcliffe’s stake acquisition could bring to their club.