
The Reality of INEOS at Manchester United: Hopes, Backlash, and Hard Decisions
The initial excitement surrounding Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS at Manchester United has quickly faded, giving way to growing frustration among the fanbase. Once seen as the long-awaited alternative to the Glazers, their approval has plummeted due to a series of unpopular decisions.
A major source of discontent has been the sweeping layoffs and strict financial cutbacks implemented under their leadership—moves that, while perhaps necessary, have been met with disappointment.
On the pitch, instability has become a defining theme. Decisions such as extending Erik ten Hag’s contract only to later dismiss him, or bringing in Dan Ashworth before parting ways with him soon after, have added to the sense of chaos rather than progress.
However, despite the backlash, there is another side to the story. Football journalist Andy Mitten has pointed out that, beneath the criticism, Ratcliffe is addressing issues the fans have long wanted the Glazers to fix.
When the Glazers first announced their search for outside investment, United fans saw it as a chance for a fresh start. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival—a lifelong United supporter taking the reins—felt like a fairytale ending.
Yet, instead of a dream, reality has been harsh. The new ownership has become the face of the painful but necessary financial corrections required after years of mismanagement.
Still, to call the new era a complete failure would be premature. Signs of a structured, long-term plan are beginning to emerge. As Andy Mitten emphasized on United We Stand, perhaps the most important change is that Ratcliffe is finally listening to what the fans have demanded for years. Whether that translates into genuine progress remains to be seen.
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