According to Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano, a group of UAE based companies have made an official $10b bid for Man United.

The ownership of Manchester United has continued to be one of the most contentious topics among supporters ever since the Glazer family’s contentious takeover of the team was finalized in 2005.

Context of the Takeover

Supporters have used demonstrations, chanting, and the now-iconic green and gold scarves, which stand for opposition to the Glazers’ rule, to voice their displeasure since the beginning. The club is still owned by the American family twenty years later. But in late 2023, the INEOS business, owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, acquired a minority share and assumed control of all football-related activities.

Significant adjustments have been made to the club’s infrastructure, recruitment approach, and hierarchy under Ratcliffe’s leadership. However, not all detractors have been quieted by his arrival. Some supporters have expressed their displeasure with staff reductions and dubious choices, such as Dan Ashworth’s appointment, claiming that the anticipated “new era” hasn’t materialized as planned thus far.

The Most Recent Takeover Speculations

Even with INEOS’s involvement, there is renewed talk of a full sale, especially in light of claims of a fresh takeover effort by United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based investors.

The Guardian claims that a group of investors from the United Arab Emirates is presently raising money to submit a formal bid for complete ownership. According to reports, the group is looking for financial support before contacting the six Glazer siblings, who still retain the majority of the company.

Interestingly, the potential buyers are said to want to involve former Manchester United icons as ambassadors for their proposal. Approaches have allegedly been made to Eric Cantona, Wayne Rooney, and David Beckham — with Beckham considered the leading choice due to his global profile and influence.

Potential Connections to Manchester City

Football365 has raised questions about whether this UAE consortium might have indirect links to Manchester City’s ownership. Former City financial adviser Stefan Borson suggested that given the interconnected nature of Gulf investments, “it’s possible there could be associated or related party transactions” between groups in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and existing football entities.

The Glazers’ Asking Price

Reports indicate that the Glazers would consider selling Manchester United if an offer exceeding £5.2 billion is tabled — more than double the club’s current market valuation.

What Happens Next?

At this stage, the situation remains uncertain. The identities of those involved in the UAE group have not been publicly disclosed, and no formal bid has been submitted. Should official figures or ambassadors be announced, momentum could quickly build toward a concrete takeover attempt.

For now, fans remain watchful — hopeful that the club’s next chapter might finally bring stability after two decades of ownersh

ip turmoil.