Qatari media has confirmed that Emir Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani, a 44-year-old billionaire, has emerged victorious in the race to acquire Manchester United (MU). Al-Watan, the newspaper owned by Sheikh Jassim’s family, announced the news, stating that he has beaten Sir Jim Ratcliffe to win the right to acquire the club. The announcement of this significant acquisition will be made in the near future, as reported by the editor-in-chief of Al-Watan newspaper. The news has generated considerable excitement and congratulations from various quarters, including the Chairman of Armasite Group, Zaid Al-Hamdan.
Despite initial obstacles, Sheikh Jassim’s side remained determined to secure the acquisition of Manchester United. The Qatari owners made their sixth offer to the Glazer family, who currently hold the majority of the club’s shares, in their pursuit of obtaining 100% ownership. The final price offered by the Qatari businessman to the Glazer family amounted to approximately £5.2 billion ($6.5 billion). In contrast, billionaire Jim Ratcliffe aimed to acquire approximately 51% of the shares, with the Glazer family retaining 20%.
Following the successful acquisition, Sheikh Jassim has pledged to invest a staggering £1 billion into Manchester United. This significant infusion of funds will be utilized for various purposes, including player acquisitions, renovations at Old Trafford, and overall club infrastructure. The immediate commitment to invest demonstrates Sheikh Jassim’s ambition to elevate Manchester United to new heights.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi, President of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), is said to be advising and assisting Sheikh Jassim in the acquisition process of Manchester United. Al-Khelaifi’s expertise and experience in the football industry make him a valuable consultant in this high-profile takeover. On the other hand, the Glazer family has engaged in ongoing discussions with Al-Khelaifi, urging Sheikh Jassim to raise his bid for the Red Devils.
The delay caused by the ownership transition has greatly affected Manchester United’s ability to pursue their squad renewal plans. The prolonged process has raised concerns for coach Erik ten Hag, formerly of Ajax, who is now responsible for the team. Ten Hag is worried about the available transfer budget and the club’s recruitment strategy. Despite the challenges, Manchester United continues to pursue top talents such as Mason Mount, Harry Kane, and other notable stars during the summer transfer window.
Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad al-Thani’s triumphant acquisition of Manchester United has garnered significant attention and excitement within the football world. The persistence displayed by Sheikh Jassim’s team, the substantial investment commitment, and the involvement of Nasser Al-Khelaifi as an advisor all contribute to the anticipation surrounding this ownership transition. As the Glazer family negotiates the sale and the transition progresses, Manchester United fans eagerly await a new era, hoping that the arrival of Sheikh Jassim will herald a period of renewed success and prosperity for the Red Devils.
