Manchester United is undergoing one of the most dramatic transformations in the club’s history under the leadership of Jim Ratcliffe. Faced with financial turmoil, controversial cost-cutting measures, and major structural changes, the club is striving to regain its place among Europe’s elite. From managerial shifts to bold new stadium plans, Ratcliffe has set out an ambitious vision for the future.
We take a closer look at his recent interview, where he candidly discusses the challenges, mistakes, and ambitious goals shaping the next chapter for Manchester United.
Amorim is Not Perfect but the Right Man
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Jim Ratcliffe acknowledges that Ruben Amorim is not flawless but insists he is the right manager for Manchester United. Despite significant injuries and an imbalanced squad, Amorim is working under difficult conditions. Ratcliffe believes the Portuguese coach needs time to implement his ideas and build a competitive team.
Ratcliffe revealed that Manchester United was heading towards insolvency by the end of 2025. Years of financial mismanagement and overspending left the club in a precarious position. To prevent this crisis, significant cost-cutting measures were necessary.
To stabilize the club’s finances, nearly 40% of the workforce was made redundant. The move was part of a broader restructuring to bring operating costs under control. Ratcliffe emphasized that these changes were essential to ensuring the club’s long-term sustainability.
United Spent £175,000 a Year on a Body Language Consultant
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One of the more surprising revelations was the club’s spending on a body language consultant. Ratcliffe pointed to such expenditures as examples of financial inefficiency. He stressed the importance of making smarter financial decisions moving forward.
Keeping Erik ten Hag Was a Mistake
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Ratcliffe admitted that it was a mistake to retain Erik ten Hag beyond last season. He conceded that the decision was driven by emotion rather than logic. In hindsight, he believes the club should have made a managerial change sooner.
Dan Ashworth’s Appointment Was a Costly Error
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Dan Ashworth’s tenure as sporting director lasted only five months and cost the club £4.1 million. Ratcliffe stated that the primary issue was a lack of chemistry between Ashworth and the club’s leadership. As a result, they had to part ways despite the financial implications.
United has set a clear objective: to secure their 21st league title by 2028. The milestone would coincide with the club’s 150th anniversary. Ratcliffe believes that with the right strategy, this goal is achievable.
United Aims to Become the World’s Most Profitable Club
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Ratcliffe predicts that the financial restructuring will make Manchester United the most profitable club in the world within three years. By cutting unnecessary expenses and improving operational efficiency, the club is on a path to financial stability.
Amorim Has the Worst Points-Per-Game Record Since Ferguson
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Statistically, Amorim has struggled in his early tenure at United. His points-per-game average of 1.12 is the lowest of any manager since Sir Alex Ferguson. However, Ratcliffe remains confident in his ability to turn things around.
United’s Highest-Paid Players Are Unavailable
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Injuries and loan deals have left Amorim without some of United’s top earners. Key players like Mason Mount and Luke Shaw are injured, while Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are out on loan. Ratcliffe believes these absences have significantly impacted the team’s performance.
The club’s financial reports show consistent losses, including a deficit of £113.1 million in 2024 alone. This trend highlights the need for major financial restructuring. Ratcliffe is determined to reverse this pattern.
Free Meals and Travel Benefits Were Cut
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To reduce expenses, United eliminated staff perks such as free lunches and covered travel costs. The decision sparked criticism, but Ratcliffe defended it as a necessary step toward financial responsibility.
Sir Alex Ferguson Lost His £2 Million Advisory Role
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One of the more sensitive cost-cutting measures was ending Sir Alex Ferguson’s £2 million annual consultancy contract. Ratcliffe personally discussed the situation with Ferguson, who ultimately accepted the decision in the best interest of the club.
Summer Transfer Budget Is Limited
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United will have limited spending power in the upcoming transfer window. The club is still paying off past signings, including Antony, Casemiro, and Rasmus Højlund, at a rate of £17 million per player. This financial burden restricts their ability to make new acquisitions.
United has officially announced plans to construct a new 100,000-seat stadium. This decision marks a historic shift away from Old Trafford. The project is part of a broader urban regeneration plan and aims to secure the club’s future at the highest level.
