January 9 – Manchester United’s ownership has come under fire from supporters’ group The 1958 calling for a vote of no confidence and branding Sir Jim Ratcliffe an “incompetent clown” as tensions at Old Trafford continue to rise.
The group, which has been at the forefront of fan protests, says the club has “lost its identity, direction and ambition” under the current model of shared ownership involving Ratcliffe and the Glazer family. A further protest is planned for United’s home game against Fulham on February 1.
In a strongly worded statement, The 1958 accused the club’s leadership of running United “like a corner shop” and turning one of world football’s most recognisable institutions into a “circus” and a “laughing stock”. “After lurching from one disaster to another, Ratcliffe comes across as an incompetent clown,” the group said. “Instead of being best in class, we’re drifting without purpose.”
That bonfire of discontent has been given fresh fuel following a turbulent week on and off the pitch. Ruben Amorim was dismissed on Monday following reported tensions with director of football Jason Wilcox. Darren Fletcher has stepped in on an interim basis.
A banner reading ‘Jim Can’t Fix This’ – a reference to sex offender Jimmy Saville’s reality TV show that ran from 1975 to 1994 and made children’s ‘wishes’ come true – was unfurled by away supporters during a midweek draw at Turf Moor.
The 1958, which claims a membership of around 100,000 fans, has consistently opposed both the Glazers’ continued involvement and Ratcliffe’s stewardship since his minority investment.
“Manchester United is 150 years old,” the group said. “If we do not act now, the club we pass on will be unrecognisable.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1767965508labto1767965508ofdlr1767965508owedi1767965508sni@g1767965508niwe.1767965508yrrah1767965508
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