Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a minority owner of Manchester United, has raised concerns about the club’s failure to pursue a highly-rated player who opted to join a rival team last summer.
Recently acquiring a 28% stake in United, Ratcliffe is poised to take charge of all footballing operations, initiating a restructuring process behind the scenes.
This includes appointing Omar Berrada as CEO and targeting Dan Ashworth for the role of sporting director.
With United undergoing a strategic review of their operations following years of mismanagement by the Glazer family, the upcoming transfer window holds significant importance for the club’s future.
Erik ten Hag’s team has been plagued by long-term injuries this season, jeopardizing their chances of Champions League qualification for the next season.
Key players like Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have been sidelined due to injuries, leaving the team with limited defensive options.
Amidst these challenges, INEOS chiefs, advocates for nurturing young talent, have expressed puzzlement over United’s decision not to pursue Tino Livramento, a promising defender who joined Newcastle United last year.
Livramento, who impressed during his time at Southampton, has continued to shine at Newcastle, making 28 appearances across all competitions this season.
INEOS believes that United should prioritize the acquisition of young players like Livramento, considering them as long-term investments despite potential inflated transfer fees.
Livramento’s versatility, capable of playing on either flank, could have been a valuable asset for United, especially given their defensive woes this season.
The absence of a permanent left-back has forced makeshift solutions, with players like Victor Lindelof being deployed out of position.
When addressing United’s injury concerns ahead of their FA Cup fifth-round clash with Nottingham Forest, Ten Hag emphasized the importance of resilience and unity within the team and among the fans.
He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to overcome adversity and highlighted the collective strength that comes from standing togetherin challenging times.
