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The Qatari consortium led by Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani reportedly has no intention of renewing its interest in purchasing Manchester United, despite the club’s share price plummeting.
Sheikh Jassim emerged as a contender to complete a full takeover of United after the Glazers announced they were open to selling in November 2022.
However, he was outbid by INEOS billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whose higher valuation of the club saw him secure a minority stake and become co-owner. As part of his agreement with the Glazer family, the British businessman took over operational control of United.
But it hasn’t been smooth sailing for Ratcliffe. United’s struggles have persisted, and some would argue the situation has actually worsened since his arrival. The Red Devils finished in 15th place in the Premier League in the just-concluded 2024/25 season, having suffered 18 defeats.
United also suffered a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur in last week’s Europa League final. Off the pitch, the situation is even more concerning, with the club’s finances in a dire state.
Ratcliffe has implemented a number of brutal cost-cutting measures including making hundreds of staff redundant, cancelling Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial contract and hiking ticket prices, just to name a few.
In the wake of United’s Europa League final defeat, the club’s share price plunged sharply. It is now down over 17% year-on-year.
There has been speculation that Sheikh Jassim might be tempted to rekindle his interest in the 20-time English champions amid the ongoing turmoil.
However, according to Mike Keegan of the Daily Mail, the Qataris have no plans to re-enter the fray.
“Mail Sport understands that there is currently little chance of that happening and little appetite for such a move given how the process played out with the Glazer family.”
“To add to the matter, INEOS are thought to have no intention of walking away from the club following the amount of work they have already carried out to change its direction.”
For Ratcliffe and INEOS, attention now shifts to the summer transfer window and backing Ruben Amorim after an extremely difficult campaign. Already, United have completed the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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