Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly open to a sale amid growing interest from Saudi investors.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly considering selling his stake in French club OGC Nice as his focus increasingly shifts toward Manchester United. Having acquired Nice for approximately £89 million in 2019, the British billionaire and INEOS chairman is said to be exploring offers, including potential interest from Saudi Arabia. Despite the investment, Nice has failed to deliver major silverware under his leadership and currently sits fifth in Ligue 1—an underwhelming return that has reportedly led Ratcliffe to consider stepping back. A report from French outlet L’Informe suggests that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which already owns a stake in Newcastle United, is watching the situation closely and may present an offer.
Ratcliffe has previously expressed disappointment in the team’s overall style of play, stating that although Nice has talented individuals, the quality of football has not inspired him. He even acknowledged that the club’s most successful period came when INEOS took a hands-off approach, implying that limited interference may have actually benefited the side.
His ambitions in football took a sharp turn in 2023 when he purchased a 27.7% stake in Manchester United for a staggering £1.3 billion. That acquisition granted him control over football operations at Old Trafford, a role he has approached with a number of bold—and controversial—decisions. Among the most contentious moves was the dismissal of Sir Alex Ferguson from an ambassadorial position and the elimination of discounted ticket pricing for children and concession holders. These actions sparked protests and widespread disapproval from fans. On the pitch, the club has also struggled. Manchester United is enduring one of its worst seasons in decades, languishing in 14th place. Ratcliffe’s delayed decision to replace Erik ten Hag with Ruben Amorim has done little to stabilize results, and the transition under the new manager has so far proven difficult.
Despite the criticisms, Ratcliffe has publicly defended Amorim, asking fans to remain patient as the Portuguese manager adjusts to life in the Premier League and navigates the language and cultural differences mid-season. Ratcliffe has taken personal responsibility for the club’s current situation and expressed faith in Amorim’s long-term potential.
The potential sale of OGC Nice marks a pivotal moment in Ratcliffe’s sporting strategy. By shedding his French football investment, he could redirect full attention and resources to Manchester United. However, as discontent among supporters grows and the team’s performances remain inconsistent, doubts over his leadership in the football world are likely to continue until significant improvements are made at Old Trafford.
