Manchester United fans are hoping Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new role as a minority shareholder of the club will bring about a much-needed change.

The appointment of Ineos CEO Ratcliffe follows 15 years of fans’ discontent with the Glazers’ owners. He held a significant 25% stake in the club and cost a staggering €1.5 billion to seal the deal. Despite this major investment, the Glazer family retains majority control, leading to speculation about the club’s direction in 2024.

United’s home, Old Trafford, is in dire need of refurbishment

Ratcliffe’s team will control sporting operations, including transfers and board appointments, that could steer the struggling club into a different future. The deal will take some pressure off the Glazers, who are at the forefront of pressing issues such as the renewal of Manchester United’s infrastructure. The decrepit Old Trafford stadium, known as the theater of dreams, is crumbling, its roof is leaking and it is in dire need of modernization worthy of hosting top-flight clubs.

Ratcliffe’s control positions him as a key figure in reshaping Manchester United’s future. But amidst this expectation, there is also the expectation of fans on and off the field who wish to return to the glory days of the club. As Manchester United prepares for a new era at Old Trafford, the football world awaits the future impact of Ratcliffe’s investment.