Lineker criticises Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Gary Lineker has taken aim at Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, branding him an “unpleasant human being”. Sir Jim, who came under scrutiny from Labour MPs for stating the UK is “on the slide”, purchased a minority stake in the club over two years ago, reports BritPanorama.
Despite some optimism surrounding Ratcliffe’s arrival, the mood among United’s fans has soured, with a protest against United’s ownership taking place before their recent loss to Manchester City this month.
Lineker voiced his concerns regarding the management of the club on The Rest is Football podcast, stating, “I look at Man United, and I see problems coming down from the top.” He expressed disapproval of the Glazer family’s decision to bring Ratcliffe into the club, suggesting this helped deflect blame away from their own management issues.
The former player noted that the conditions at Old Trafford reflect deeper issues: “It is a bit of a mess, that club. You’ve got a ground that’s falling apart, all sorts of complaints about various things.” He highlighted concerns about losing young talent, stating, “They’re losing young teenagers; it looks like that [JJ Gabriel leaving] is going to happen.” The team’s inconsistent performances have exacerbated tensions among supporters.
The Glazer family, who bought United in 2005, have retained majority ownership. Ratcliffe mentioned earlier this year that he could leave his position if the criticism continued, acknowledging, “I don’t mind being unpopular because I get that nobody likes seeing Manchester United down where they are.” His reluctance to endure abuse from supporters illustrates the challenges ahead for both him and the club.
As United faces a stretch of crucial matches, including an encounter against Tottenham, their disappointing start to the season—with only a couple of victories—heightens the stakes for management and players alike. In a period where results are paramount, the pressure is palpable, adding layers to an already complex narrative surrounding one of football’s most storied clubs.
