14 January 2024 , 18:19
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Sir Jim Ratcliffe 's presence at Old Trafford for Sunday's Premier League match didn't go unnoticed by Gary Neville, who pointed out that Manchester United owners the Glazer family have rarely been in attendance during their 18-plus years as owners.
United confirmed on Christmas Eve that Ratcliffe will take a 25 percent stake in the club, subject to ratification from the relevant footballing authorities. The INEOS billionaire, whose other sporting investments include French side OGC Nice, will take charge of the football side of things as a minority owner, with the Glazers still holding the biggest stake.
Ratcliffe said before kick-off that he expected everything to be ratified before the end of February. His presence had everyone talking, though, not least former club captain Neville.
"You have to feel optimistic [about him]," Neville said during Sky Sports commentary duty. "He’s present, which is really important."
Ratcliffe wasn't in attendance for the Boxing Day victory over Aston Villa and that match was followed by away games against Nottingham Forest in the league and Wigan in the FA Cup. He made an appearance for Sunday's game, though, and spoke to the media about what might come next.
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"It's the first match for me since we got here," the 71-year-old said. "I'm very excited to be here, but I can’t answer any questions really. It's a big match and we normally do well against Spurs. I have met Erik [ten Hag] but it would be inappropriate [to comment on that meeting] until it's all formalised.
“I have done a few exciting things, but this caps it all," he added. "There’s no question about that. It's taken a few years and it's taken a few turns, as you know, but these things take some doing."
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Sir Jim Ratcliffe was joined in the stands by Sir Dave Brailsford (PA)Ratcliffe was treated to an extremely open game, as were all the others in attendance. After coming from behind against Villa on Boxing Day, United got themselves in front twice during the first half against Spurs only to be pegged back on both occasions.
Rasmus Hojlund made it two goals in two home games, rifling home an early opener, only for Richarlison to head home an equaliser. Marcus Rashford made it 2-1 with his first home goal of the campaign, putting United in front at the break, but Rodrigo Bentancur levelled less than a minute after the restart.
There was also an injury boost going into the game, with United welcoming back Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro. Both have spent some time out injured, but were available to take their spots on the bench, with Martinez coming on for the final half-hour.