Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s first words after becoming Manchester United minority stakeholder

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has become part owner of Manchester United after buying 27.7% in the football club.

The British billionaire, who supported Manchester United as a boy, wins a long drawn-out saga after Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani withdrew his early interest to buy the club outright.

On Tuesday evening, a statement read via ManUtd.com: “Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has completed his 27.7% acquisition of the club, following approval of all conditions, including the FA and the Premier League.”

The British billionaire and president of chemicals firm INEOS will oversee footballing operations at Old Trafford alongside right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford.

After completing his deal, Ratcliffe said: “To become co-owner of Manchester United is a great honour and comes with great responsibility. This marks the completion of the transaction, but just the beginning of our journey to take Manchester United back to the top of English, European and world football, with world-class facilities for our fans. Work to achieve those objectives will accelerate from today.”

Joel Glazer said: “I would like to welcome Sir Jim as co-owner and look forward to working closely with him and INEOS Sport to deliver a bright future for Manchester United.”

Omar Berrada will become chief executive and INEOS are in the process of appointing Dan Ashworth as sporting director.

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