Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reaffirmed his faith in Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, stating that the Portuguese coach will be given three years to prove himself. Despite growing pressure after a poor run of results, the club’s minority owner emphasized that he will not make rash decisions based on short-term performance or media criticism.
Amorim has endured a challenging spell since taking charge nearly a year ago. United have struggled for consistency, failing to secure back-to-back Premier League wins this season and sitting 10th in the table. Last season’s 15th-place finish and an early Carabao Cup exit to lower-league side Grimsby have intensified scrutiny of the 40-year-old’s leadership. His preferred 3-4-3 system, backed by a net summer spend of about £170 million, has yet to yield the expected results.
Ratcliffe, who oversees football operations after acquiring a 25% stake in December 2023, remains one of Amorim’s strongest supporters. He has urged patience, insisting that real progress takes time. “Ruben needs to show he’s a great coach over three years,” Ratcliffe explained. “Football can’t be run on kneejerk reactions. You can’t flick a switch and expect instant success.”
The businessman also dismissed the possibility of interference from the Glazer family, who still hold majority ownership, stating firmly that Amorim’s position will not be determined by outside pressure. Ratcliffe described the Glazers as “passionate about the club” but noted that day-to-day management now falls under his control and INEOS’s leadership team.
Since his arrival, Ratcliffe has introduced sweeping cost-cutting measures to streamline the club’s operations. About 450 jobs were cut, free staff lunches were scrapped, and Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role was ended. While these decisions drew criticism, Ratcliffe defended them as necessary steps toward sustainability. “The costs were too high. We need a leaner, more efficient club,” he said.
Manchester United recently reported record revenues of £666.5 million but still posted a £33 million loss. Ratcliffe remains optimistic that restructuring efforts will yield long-term rewards. He envisions United becoming the most profitable football club globally, laying a financial foundation for sustained success on the pitch.
Through patience, restructuring, and financial discipline, Ratcliffe aims to restore Manchester United to its former glory under Amorim’s leadership.
