Pranav Nair
Richard Arnold sheds light on the Manchester United takeover process
The Manchester United takeover has been the talk of the football world since it was announced last year that the Glazers are amenable to parting ways with the footballing giants.
Since then, there have been several different updates but we are no closer to seeing the Americans bid goodbye to their controversy-ridden stewardship of the Red Devils. Qatar-backed Sheikh Jassim and United fan and INEOS billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe are both in the running and are among the favourites to win the bid.
Of the two, some would argue that Sheikh Jassim has the deeper pockets and is better placed to get the best out of the club’s potential and resources. Despite our standing in the sport today, there is still much that can be done for the Manchester United brand to attain its full potential.
Now Manchester United chief executive officer Richard Arnold has opened up at a Fans Forum (h/t Manchester Evening News)on the matter and provided the latest updates. While he did not give much away, Arnold did confirm that work is ongoing behind the scenes.
“I know you will be eager for an update on the progress of the Strategic Review but again all I can say at this moment is the work is ongoing. As I have said previously investment of this scale is complicated and complex. I continue to impress on all parties the importance of fan engagement I have my word that I will keep this body informed and updated as soon as I am able to”
Selling a club of the size of Manchester United is no small feat and it is bound to take some time. The due diligence needed along with all the systems that need addressing before ownership changes is a huge affair with many strings in play.
One major drawback the Glazers have had in recent years is the lack of engagement with fans. Speaking to the forum, Arnold confirmed that he will keep the fan forum in the loop as far as the ownership saga is concerned.
Hopefully, both the decision-makers and the Glazers come to an understanding soon and ensure that the club’s interests are given the first priority. United are bigger than its owners and it makes sense that the institution’s integrity and ability to compete in the long run are not compromised.
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For now, Manchester United are still to announce new owners and it is likely to rattle fans who have been waiting a long time to see the Glazers bid goodbye. Neither the fans nor Gary Neville are likely to calm down unless either Sheikh Jassim or Sir Ratcliffe walk in.
