Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have officially assumed control of football operations at Manchester United, after their 25% stake in the club was approved by the Premier League.
In his first day on the job, Ratcliffe has communicated with supporters more than the Glazers have ever done, via a series of media interviews.
The 71-year-old sat down with members of the English media on Wednesday to discuss a number of topics, including his ambitions for the club, his plans for Old Trafford and how to knock Manchester City and Liverpool "off their perch," using a direct quote from Alex Ferguson.
That iconic line from the club's legendary manager referred to his ambition to overtake the great Liverpool side of the 1980s, and Ferguson went on to do just that during his trophy-laden spell at United.
Jim Ratcliffe conducts interview in front of Eric Cantona jersey
Quoting Ferguson is sure to go down well with supporters, as will the fact that Ratcliffe conducted one of his interviews today in front of an Eric Cantona number 7 jersey.
The shirt was spotted by The Athletic, and Greater Manchester-born Ratcliffe went on to express his admiration for the Frenchman, as well as some other Man United legends of days gone by.
"He [Cantona] was a maverick obviously. He was the catalyst for change in Ferguson’s era … and that kickstarted everything off. He was a talisman," said Ratcliffe.
“There has always been a bit of glamour attached to Manchester United which has been lacking a bit in the last few years. You’ve had George Best, Bobby Charlton, Eric the King. At the end of the day we are in the entertainment business. You don’t want to watch bland football or characterless football."
Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Sir Jim Ratcliffe has completed his 27.7% acquisition of the club, following approval of all conditions, including the FA and the Premier League.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) February 20, 2024
Man United future
Ratcliffe then shifted from the past to the present, highlighting the now famous recent photograph of Alejandro Garnacho, Rasmus Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo celebrating a goal against West Ham by casually sitting on the advertising hoardings.
"To be honest, since Christmas, with the young lads, they have played some fantastic football. There have been some great matches. I can’t remember many matches at the beginning of the season I was really excited by.
"The three young lads sitting on the hoarding at the side. That was a good picture. So I think that’s the Eric point really. We are cognisant of that fact you do need a bit of glamour in this.”
While it remains to be seen whether United can reach their old heights under Ratcliffe's stewardship, he's certainly saying all of the right things early on to get supporters onside.
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