Sir Jim Ratcliffe expressed his disapproval of Manchester United’s extravagant acquisition of Casemiro, highlighting it as an instance of reckless spending by the club.
The British billionaire, who is currently in negotiations to acquire a 25% stake in Manchester United for £1.4 billion, held discussions with the club’s leadership in March. During this meeting, he proposed more efficient ways to manage the team. According to reports from The Guardian, Ratcliffe specifically pointed out the £70 million signing of the 30-year-old Casemiro, contending that investing such a substantial sum in aging high-profile players was extravagant.
Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has become increasingly frustrated with the club’s recruitment policies and procedures. It is understood that Ratcliffe intends to overhaul the entire system. The 70-year-old billionaire is awaiting confirmation of his bid, and he has made it clear to the Glazer family, the club’s owners, that he seeks full control over the football aspects of the organization.
Ratcliffe’s plans raise uncertainties about the futures of chief executive Richard Arnold and football director John Murtough, who have been responsible for the club’s recruitment activities in recent years.
Despite spending more than any other club worldwide on player acquisitions over the past decade, Manchester United has had limited success to show for it. A remarkably low percentage of their most costly transfers have yielded the desired results, and they have also struggled to turn a profit on player transactions.
Insiders indicate that Ratcliffe, who also owns Ligue 1 club Nice, is eager to retain Erik ten Hag in his managerial role despite the team’s disappointing start to the season. Currently, Manchester United is positioned in 10th place in the Premier League after losing four of their first eight matches. However, the campaign has been beset by off-field challenges, including a significant injury list and controversies involving key players, which have understandably hindered their progress.
It is worth noting that since joining Manchester United from Real Madrid in 2022, Casemiro has been one of the club’s standout performers. Nevertheless, the decision to invest £70 million in his acquisition, along with awarding the midfielder a four-year contract worth £350,000, has faced substantial criticism.
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United is currently 10th in the Premier League with 12 points.
In the last 8 games, it has won 4 times and lost 4 times. In its last match, Manchester United won 2-1 against Brentford.
It has a negative goal difference after scoring 9 goals and conceding 12.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Sheffield United on Saturday 21st of October in Sheffield. The prediction is Manchester United winning the match.