After a lengthy saga over Manchester United ownership, Sheikh Jassim of the ruling Qatari family was in the news before the Glazers sold a minority stake to Sir Jim Ratcliffe. However, Sheikh Jassim is once again stirring up talk of a Manchester United takeover, even as the Glazer family maintains its grip on the club. According to reports including The Daily Mail, there are suggestions that despite the previous setback, the Qatari billionaire is determined to secure the deal to own the club he supports.
Back in 2023, both Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe were actively involved in investment discussions at United. While the Glazers ultimately opted to retain control, making Ratcliffe a minority shareholder and entrusting him with football operations, the idea of a change in ownership has never fully disappeared. According to an exclusive by CentreDevils on X, Sheikh Jassim is still interested in acquiring Manchester United. He is even open to purchasing only the Glazers’ majority stake while keeping Sir Jim Ratcliffe on board. However, he wants the Glazers out of the club.
The prospect of a full takeover has become more interesting after recent financial concerns as United is continuously posting losses. With Manchester United’s net debt now surpassing £1 billion since the Glazer takeover, there’s a growing sense that a fresh start could help stabilize the club’s finances. Sheikh Jassim was earlier interested in completely buying the club including major infrastructural developments and making the club debt free. According to Bloomberg, a deal was struck between INEOS and the Glazers last year that might allow the American family to sell their entire stake later this year. If the Glazers decide to move forward with that plan, Sheikh Jassim could very well be among the first in line to re-launch his bid.
For Sheikh Jassim, who has been a United fan for years, the idea of a full takeover is not just about profit but also about returning the club to its former glory. His consortium has laid out a bold vision: to clear the club’s mounting debt and invest in everything from the training centre and stadium to improving the fan experience. The comprehensive plan was earlier outlined via his Nine Two Foundation, a tribute to the famous Class of 92’ coming out of United’s academy.
While the Glazers have repeatedly stated they have no intention of selling their stake, ongoing underwhelming performances, Fan discontent and financial pressures continue to fuel speculation of a sale. Will the Glazers reconsider their stance, or will Sheikh Jassim’s ambitions remain just another tempting rumour? Only time can tell.