RismadarVoice Reporters
October 22, 2026
Manchester United’s ownership has come under renewed scrutiny following comments attributed to football journalist Kaveh Solhekol, who raised questions about whether the Glazer family’s continued control has limited the club’s development.
The discussion has revived longstanding concerns among supporters about Manchester United’s financial management, sporting performance and the direction of the club under its American owners.
The Glazer family acquired Manchester United in 2005 through a leveraged buyout that placed significant debt obligations on the club.
Since then, sections of the fan base have repeatedly criticised the ownership structure, arguing that financial commitments, management decisions and inadequate investment in infrastructure have contributed to the team’s difficulties.
Solhekol, a Sky Sports journalist who has extensively covered Manchester United’s ownership, has previously questioned the financial consequences of the Glazer takeover and the family’s reluctance to relinquish control.
His analysis has focused particularly on the debt associated with the acquisition and the financial resources required to compete with Europe’s leading clubs.
Manchester United entered a new ownership arrangement in 2024 when British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquired a minority stake through his INEOS group and assumed responsibility for football operations.
However, the Glazer family retained majority voting control, allowing it to maintain a decisive influence over major corporate decisions.
According to the club’s financial disclosures for the year ended June 30, 2026, the Glazer family controlled approximately 67.91 per cent of voting rights, while INEOS held about 28.95 per cent.
The club also reported total indebtedness of approximately £689 million at the end of the financial year.
Despite concerns over its finances, Manchester United has continued to invest in players, management restructuring and infrastructure development.
The club also secured Champions League qualification after finishing third in the 2025–26 Premier League season under Michael Carrick.
Nevertheless, the broader ownership debate remains unresolved.
Some supporters believe a complete change of ownership would provide an opportunity to address longstanding financial and governance concerns.
Others argue that improvements in recruitment, football administration and strategic planning could strengthen the club’s competitiveness without necessarily requiring a full sale.
Reports in June indicated that some Glazer family members were considering selling their individual stakes, although no completed transaction transferring majority control has been announced.
The renewed debate highlights the continuing uncertainty over Manchester United’s long-term ownership and whether the existing arrangement can deliver sustained sporting and financial progress.
