Manchester United Takeover: Jim Ratcliffe's Trawlers Limited Marks Dawn of New Era

In a landmark move, British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe has successfully secured the takeover of Manchester United through his newly formed company, Trawlers Limited. The Isle of Man-registered entity, established in October, holds sentimental significance for Ratcliffe, a devoted Red Devils fan since his youth. This strategic acquisition places Ratcliffe at the helm of the football operations, with a specific focus on reviving the club’s fortunes.

Trawlers Limited, a nod to the legendary Manchester United striker Eric Cantona, signifies Ratcliffe‘s commitment to preserving the club’s rich history and restoring it to its former glory. Cantona’s famous quote during a 1995 press conference serves as inspiration, where he remarked, “When the seagulls follow the trawler, it’s because they think sardines will be thrown into the sea.”

Ratcliffe’s takeover comes after his sole rival, Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, withdrew from the race in October. The timing of Trawlers Limited’s creation aligns with this pivotal moment in the takeover saga.

Expressing his aspirations for Manchester United, Ratcliffe emphasized a long-term commitment to driving improvement within the club. Acknowledging the challenges ahead, he outlined plans to leverage the global knowledge, expertise, and resources from his wider INEOS Sport group. The infusion of funds aims to facilitate future investments, particularly focusing on the iconic Old Trafford stadium.

As the majority owners, the Glazer family will continue overseeing other aspects of the club, allowing Ratcliffe to assume control of football operations. With Manchester United yet to clinch a league title since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, Ratcliffe’s vision centers on unlocking the club’s potential and reestablishing it as a powerhouse in the footballing world. The Trawlers Limited takeover marks a new chapter in Manchester United’s history, igniting hopes of a resurgence among fans worldwide.