Manchester United Holds out one of its most challenging seasons in recent history, both in terms of results and economics. After the last protests, united owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe broke his silence, recognizes two major mistakes and discusses the future of head coach Ruben Amorim.
Ineos, led by Ratcliffe, acquired a 27% share in Manchester United in December 2023, became a minority shareholder and took control of the club’s sports activities together with the Glazer family. Reflects on its short term at the club, Ratcliffe admitted that both Erik Ten Hag and Dan Ashworth were a decision which he now considers mistakes.
In an interview with TelegraphRatcliffe treated Ten Hag’s situation and explained the circumstances that led to his departure just three months after the Dutch signed a contract extension: “The Erik thing is somewhat mitigating. There was a lot of debate about that time. He had just won a cup final. Fans were clearly of the view that we would like to stick to him and all that. “
As for Dan Ashworth, Ratcliffe quoted an ”Lack of chemistry“As the main reason for the termination of the former sports director. “They were both mistakes. I don’t think we can say much more than that. It is a trip and there are many decisions that we have to make during the trip and we will not get them okay. “
In the midst of financial uncertainty, Manchester United’s leadership made a bold decision to stabilize the club, including appointing Ruben Amorim. However, Ratcliffer recognized mistakes turned out to be costly, with Ten Hag and Ashworth’s departures cost the club a combined £ 17.5 million. In addition, Secure Amorim’s services – including his coaching staff – came to an additional £ 11 millionAdding the club’s financial burden.
Ratcliffe backs amorim despite difficult start
Despite Manchester United’s struggle – including sitting 14th place in the Premier League (their worst position in the history of the competition) and was knocked out from the FA Cup – Ratcliffe was stuck behind Amorimexpresses confidence in the Portuguese boss.
“Honestly, with the squad he had available and the fact that he came during the middle of the season, I think he has done a good job. “He shockingly admitted. “Everyone expects miracles overnight. It is not a real life in my opinion. I thought, a really impressive performance (against Arsenal). They could not have worked harder. They could not have been more committedHe added.
Ratcliffe also acknowledged the injury crisis that has plagued the squad and highlighted the limited alternatives available to Amorim: “Half of the squad is missing for Ruben. If you look at the eight best players in terms of salary in Manchester United are 50 percent of them not available to Ruben… if you look at our eight best you have Mason Mount and Luke Shaw that have been injured. Rashford is gone and Sancho too. Four of our eight best players in terms of salary. “
Ratcliffe was concluded by praising Amorim’s philosophy and leadership and emphasized his strong relationship with the Portuguese boss. “I Do, honestly. I really like the Rub. I also met him before the match, but we sat down and we had half an hour with him after the match. He is a very thoughtful guy“He said.
