Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the co-owner of Manchester United, is reportedly prepared to support Ruben Amorim`s planned revitalization of the club. However, he is seeking confirmation that the manager is fully committed to remaining in his role.
Ratcliffe is understood to be ready to back Amorim in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Yet, inconsistent messages from Amorim have led to concerns for Ratcliffe, who is apprehensive that the Portuguese manager might decide the significant task of rebuilding the team is too demanding for him.
Last week, approximately seven months after replacing the sacked Erik ten Hag, Amorim indicated that he might feel compelled to step aside.
He stated, “This is a critical moment in the club`s history. We must be exceptionally strong and courageous this summer because another season like this is unacceptable. If we begin in this manner, if the current sentiment persists, we should allow different individuals to take charge.”
Despite these remarks, prior to the 1-0 loss against Chelsea on Friday night, Amorim had affirmed that he would not be leaving.
Sources close to the situation suggest Ratcliffe remains worried that the former Sporting Lisbon coach could conclude that he has had enough, especially after a chaotic period for which Amorim took personal responsibility, describing the team as United`s “worst in history.”
Ratcliffe reportedly perceives a similar kind of unconventional character in Amorim to himself – the type of individual who drove his Ineos company to global success. However, he requires a definite assurance that the manager plans to see out the remaining two years of his contract, preventing United from falling into further turmoil.
Concerns are mounting that even securing a Champions League spot by winning Wednesday’s Europa League final against Tottenham in Spain might not be enough to persuade the Portuguese coach to stay.
He has previously commented that competing among Europe`s elite next season might be an excessive challenge for a squad that, in his view, “doesn`t fear” losing anymore.
These comments followed the 2-0 home Premier League defeat to West Ham the previous week.
Since his investment of £1.3 billion for a 27.7% stake approximately 15 months ago, Ratcliffe has overseen significant cost-cutting measures at the club.
Up to 450 positions could be eliminated, and the financial restrictions are so severe that Amorim is reportedly funding the travel expenses for 30 members of his backroom staff to attend the Bilbao final.
Ratcliffe had previously issued a warning that United`s financial situation was so dire that the club faced a risk of insolvency.
Nevertheless, funds are expected to be made available to finance the potential £60 million acquisition of forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves, with Ipswich forward Liam Delap also identified as a £30 million target. The club is also looking to sign a new goalkeeper and an additional defender.
Additionally, talented homegrown players like Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo might be sold to generate around £100 million, alongside the planned departure of several other squad members to raise further capital.
Amorim is anticipated to have substantial input, working alongside Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, and technical director Jason Wilcox, in determining which players remain, which depart, and which new talents are recruited.
However, his influence is conditional upon him convincing the hierarchy of his readiness to commit for the long term, thereby avoiding the need for United to search for a third new manager within roughly a year.
