In a recent interview with the esteemed United We Stand fanzine, Big Sir Jim Ratcliffe discussed the significant changes needed at Old Trafford to restore Manchester United's "elite status" as it once held under Alex Ferguson. Since acquiring the club for £1.25bn from the Glazer family, Ratcliffe has been the target of fan criticism, often projecting an image of being the sharpest mind in the room—until Joel and Avram Glazer enter.
In the nine months since his acquisition, Ratcliffe has preached financial stability while making costly decisions that have cost the club millions. He extended Erik ten Hag's contract and added more Ajax players, only to dismiss him months later. Replacing him, Ratcliffe brought in Ruben Amorim and his coaching staff, which also came at a high price. As a tax exile, Ratcliffe unsuccessfully requested government funding for Old Trafford's refurbishment and laid off 250 staff, including those from the women's team, while raising ticket prices mid-season.
Despite his humble beginnings, Ratcliffe insists he understands poverty and aims to keep Old Trafford accessible. However, his decisions suggest otherwise. Recently, he "mutually" parted ways with Dan Ashworth, the head of football recruitment, just five months after Ashworth's high-profile hiring.
Football Daily recalls its initial skepticism when Ratcliffe and his associate, Smaller Sir Dave Brailsford, began their public pursuit of the club. Brailsford, known for his cycling success, has rebranded as a football executive, overseeing United's worst league start in 40 years. Their recent loss to Nottingham Forest indicates Amorim faces a daunting task to restore United's former glory.
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