Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire minority owner of Manchester United, is facing renewed criticism regarding his commitment to the women’s team.

This comes after it was revealed that during a tour of the club’s facilities, Ratcliffe asked former captain Katie Zelem what she did, seemingly unaware of her role as captain.

This moment raised further doubts about his focus on the women’s side of the club.

Tensions Rise Over Ineos’ Impact on Manchester United

A year after Ineos’ purchase of a 27.7% stake in Manchester United, which has now increased to 28.94%, there is growing discontent over the new ownership’s decisions.

Ratcliffe’s leadership team, including Ineos director Sir Dave Brailsford, has faced criticism for their handling of major club moves, such as the sacking of manager Erik ten Hag just months after renewing his contract, and the sudden dismissal of sporting director Dan Ashworth after only five months.

These controversial decisions have cast a shadow over Ineos’ influence on both the men’s and women’s teams.

Ratcliffe’s Alleged Disinterest in Women’s Football

Ratcliffe has also been criticized for his perceived lack of interest in the women’s game, especially after he chose to attend a Premier League match at Old Trafford last season rather than the FA Cup final, where the women’s team secured their first-ever FA Cup victory.

While Ratcliffe has denied reports of indifference, claiming they were “slightly misguided,” further revelations have complicated his defense.

A recent report by Telegraph Sport highlighted an awkward encounter between Ratcliffe and Zelem, in which he didn’t realize he was speaking to the club’s captain.

Ashworth’s Departure and Impact on Women’s Team

The unexpected dismissal of Dan Ashworth in December, just five months into his role, also raised concerns among players.

Ashworth was seen as a strong supporter of the women’s team, and his departure left the squad feeling “deflated.”

Notably, Ratcliffe is said to have never had a conversation with Ashworth regarding the women’s side, fueling perceptions of his lack of interest in their development.

Women’s Team Training Facilities Shifted for Men’s Revamp

Under Ratcliffe’s ownership, the women’s team has faced logistical challenges, including being moved from their dedicated training facilities to temporary accommodations to make space for the men’s side, which is undergoing a £50 million revamp.

This shift further highlighted the perceived imbalance in focus between the two teams.

Ratcliffe Acknowledges Challenges in Focusing on Women’s Team

Ratcliffe has openly admitted that it’s difficult for him to focus on the women’s team, stating that the men’s team is the “main” priority.

His comments have added to the feeling that the women’s side is secondary under the current leadership.

However, despite this, plans are in place for the women’s team to push for their first Women’s Super League title as part of Manchester United’s ambitious Project 150, which is set to culminate in 2028, the club’s 150th anniversary.

Looking Ahead for Manchester United Women’s Team

The women’s team, currently second in the Women’s Super League, is just seven points behind Chelsea, the league leaders.

With manager Marc Skinner’s squad performing well, the club’s commitment to improving the women’s team could be seen in the context of the larger club-wide Project 150.

However, the lingering questions over Ratcliffe’s focus and the treatment of the women’s team will likely continue to surface as the season progresses.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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