Glazer Family Fires Back at Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Explosive Immigrant Accusations—Inside Their Response

The Glazer family, who hold majority ownership of Manchester United, have reportedly been left "appalled" by controversial statements made by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding the United Kingdom being "overrun by immigrants."

While some disenchanted segments of the British public welcomed his remarks, Ratcliffe faced severe criticism from prominent political figures—including U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, along with media personalities and supporters. His statements also contained inaccurate assertions about U.K. demographic changes.

A public statement of regret was subsequently released, particularly addressing any offense caused by his choice of words, though the petrochemicals mogul largely maintained his original position.

Manchester United then released a comprehensive statement, which appears strategically timed, reaffirming the club's dedication to equality, diversity and inclusion principles.

Reports emerged over the weekend suggesting Ratcliffe had offered an apology to the Glazers, which includes six family members serving as Manchester United plc directors—notably executive co-chairmen Joel and Avram.

Though the Glazer family has maintained virtual silence regarding Manchester United matters for 21 years following their contentious 2005 acquisition, the vocal Ratcliffe has emerged as the public representative of the club's ownership, despite holding less than 30% ownership. He oversees sporting operations—and apparently much more, given the extensive non-football staff reductions over the last 18 months.

A BBC Sport article references a source familiar with the Glazers suggesting they view Ratcliffe's immigration remarks as showing "contempt for their ownership," especially given their own immigrant heritage. Malcolm Glazer's ancestors were Jewish-Lithuanian immigrants who settled in America.

Concerns Over Ratcliffe's Impact on Man Utd's Commercial Potential

Worries About Ratcliffe's Effect on Man Utd's Business Prospects

The additional significant concern involves worries about Ratcliffe, currently under FA investigation to assess whether he damaged English football's reputation, and the possible financial consequences for the club.

The previously mentioned source also stated: "Major corporations seek association with youth, optimism and progressive thinking. United is presently having difficulty securing sponsors ... and this worsens that situation. [Prospective partners might] flee immediately."

Manchester United presently lacks a commercial training kit partnership, no longer maintains an agreement with prominent hotel chain Marriott International, and will soon need to evaluate sleeve sponsorship opportunities.

Commercial earnings for the previous season—the most recent complete campaign—remained a respectable £333 million ($450.3 million) and increased 10% from 2023–24. However, they no longer maintain the same market dominance, with years of sporting disappointment affecting performance across all areas and creating demand for stronger commercial revenue sources to support expenditure.

Man Utd Commercial Revenue Compared to Rivals—Last 5 Years

Man Utd Business Income Versus Competitors—Previous 5 Seasons

*Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal have not yet released 2024–25 financial statements