Football

Man Utd takeover: Erik ten Hag fires warning as Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe duel

  • 02. Apr 2023. 7:17
  • By The EU Times
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Manchester United are reportedly set for a potential takeover by two of Europe's wealthiest men – Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

And Ajax boss Erik ten Hag has now fired a warning to the Red Devils, insisting that any new owners must back manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the transfer market.

The Dutchman is keen to ensure that United have the financial power to compete with Europe's elite, claiming that the club's recent struggles have been caused by a lack of investment in the squad.

Ten Hag said: “Manchester United is a great club and they have had a difficult time in recent years.

“It's important that the new owners make sure they invest in the squad and back Solskjaer to make the club competitive again.

“Without the right backing, it will be difficult for the team to compete for trophies again.”

The two potential buyers, Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, have a combined wealth of more than £50billion and could bring a huge financial boost to the club.

However, Ten Hag has warned that money is not the only factor in creating a successful team, insisting that United will only be able to compete at the highest level if they make the right decisions in the transfer market.

He added: “It's not just about money, it's also about making the right decisions. You need to buy the right players and make sure you can attract the best talent.

“If the new owners can do that, then Manchester United can become a force to be reckoned with again.”

The proposed takeover is still in its early stages, but it appears that Ten Hag is keen to make sure that the new owners make the right decisions if they do acquire the club.

Whether the Sheikh and Sir Jim can bring the glory days back to Old Trafford remains to be seen, but Ten Hag's warning is clear – they must back Solskjaer in the transfer market if they want to compete with Europe's elite.