Since acquiring a 27% stake for £1 billion and taking over operations at United in February 2024, INEOS, led by Ratcliffe, has stirred controversy with several decisions aimed at freeing up funds.
Ratcliffe faced significant backlash for charging staff £20 for coach travel to the FA Cup final last season, despite captain Bruno Fernandes offering to cover the costs himself but being rebuffed by the club. ..Continue Reading
Other controversial measures included significant ticket price hikes, cutting ambassadorial salaries, and ending a long-standing £2.16 million arrangement with legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
During the summer, 250 staff members were made redundant, with more employees expected to be laid off soon, according to talkSPORT.
The Times reported that one of the club’s most popular employees, Jackie Kay, has been informed of her dismissal.
Kay, who has been with the Red Devils since 1995, served as CEO David Gill’s executive assistant, oversaw first team logistics at the Carrington training ground, and was the head of team operations before being let go.
Though the decision is said to be part of a “wider performance overhaul” rather than fresh redundancies, Kay was informed of her “brutal” departure last week, leaving staff “upset” by the news.
Considered the “oil in the machine,” Kay was well-liked by many players and coaches at United, with Ashley Young praising her dedication and willingness to go the extra mile.
Young, who played 261 times for Man United, said: “She’s just brilliant. She’s like the mum to everyone. If there are any problems or there is anything we need sorting out it’s a case of ‘Jackie can you do this’, ‘Jackie can you help with this’.
“I’m sure there are times when she looks at her phone when it’s ringing and she must think ‘no, I’m not answering’. But she’s always there for you.”
Ratcliffe is thought to have invested approximately £241 million in United since becoming a minority shareholder. Most of this investment is directed towards upgrading the club’s training ground, but additional funds are needed for the potential redevelopment of Old Trafford or the construction of a new stadium.
Moreover, United must adhere to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations (PSR). In an interview with the United We Stand fanzine in December, Ratcliffe justified the ongoing cost-cutting measures.
“To get Manchester United to where we need to get it – it’s a bit like the country,” he stated.
“We have to make some difficult and unpopular decisions.
“If you shy away from the difficult decisions then nothing much is going to change.”
