Manchester United Surprised by Saudi Chief’s Takeover Claims

Manchester United’s management reacted with surprise after Turki Al-Sheikh, a prominent Saudi figure, claimed on social media that a takeover of the club was nearing completion. His assertion caused a stir among fans and staff alike, despite the absence of any discussions about a sale.

On Wednesday, Al-Sheikh posted on his X account, stating, “The best news I heard today is that Manchester United is now in an advanced stage of completing a deal to sell to a new investor. I hope he’s better than the previous owners.” This announcement came shortly after an interview with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, one of the club’s co-owners, who did not indicate any intention to relinquish control of the team.

Background on Ownership Talks

In March 2023, Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe engaged in negotiations with The Raine Group, which facilitated the sale of a significant portion of Manchester United on behalf of the Glazer family. Throughout these discussions, both parties expressed optimism, though Ratcliffe ultimately secured a minority stake in the club.

Sheikh Jassim had previously submitted a bid of approximately £5.5 billion for full ownership, which included plans to eliminate all of Manchester United’s debt and establish a separate fund dedicated to the club and its local community. Despite these intentions, his credibility was questioned during the process, particularly regarding his proof of funds. As of now, there are no indications that Sheikh Jassim will present a renewed bid.

Al-Sheikh’s Influence and Future Plans

Turki Al-Sheikh, who plays a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s entertainment sector through initiatives like Riyadh Season, has also made substantial investments in boxing, contributing to the sport’s resurgence in recent years. His influence extends to various sports and cultural events in the region.

In light of financial considerations, Manchester United may explore hosting a mid-season friendly match overseas to bolster revenue. Al-Sheikh is reportedly in discussions about staging such an event in Saudi Arabia. Ruben Amorim, a prominent figure associated with the club, emphasized the necessity of managing the club’s budget effectively, stating, “We have our fans, the budget. We have to compensate for a lot of things. We want to be with our fans around the world, so we will put it all together to do that.”

As Manchester United navigates the complexities of ownership and financial strategy, the club remains a focal point in international sports discussions, especially with the ongoing developments surrounding potential investment.