Manchester United expressed its commitment to inclusivity and welcoming diversity after co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe made controversial remarks claiming that the UK is “colonized by immigrants.”
In a follow-up to his comments during a Sky News interview on Wednesday, Ratcliffe stated he was sorry for any offense his statements caused, which were criticized by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham.
ESPN sources revealed that the English Football Association (FA) is aware of Ratcliffe’s statements and is considering an inquiry.
“Manchester United takes pride in being an inclusive and welcoming club,” the Premier League entity affirmed in an official statement.
“Our diverse roster of players, staff, and the global supporter community reflect the rich history and heritage of Manchester; a city that welcomes all as home.”
“Since initiating the All Red All Equal campaign in 2016, we have integrated equality, diversity, and inclusion into all that we do.”
“We remain unwaveringly dedicated to the principles of this campaign, which are evident in our policies, culture, and compliance with the Premier League’s Advanced Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Standard.”
Earlier, Ratcliffe clarified, “I regret that my choice of words may have offended some people in the UK and Europe, but it’s crucial to discuss controlled and well-managed immigration that fosters economic growth.”
“My comments stemmed from discussions about UK policy during the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where I highlighted the significance of economic growth, jobs, skills, and manufacturing in the UK.”
“My intention was to emphasize that governments should manage migration alongside investments in skills, industry, and jobs to ensure shared long-term prosperity. It’s vital to maintain open discussions about the challenges faced by the UK.”
However, Ratcliffe’s attempt to soften the impact of his remarks did not satisfy the Manchester United Muslim Supporters’ Club (MUMSC), which released a critical statement.
“We acknowledge Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s apology for his ‘choice of language,’ but we feel this falls short of addressing the gravity of what was said,” the group remarked. “The term ‘colonized’ was used repeatedly to describe modern Britain. That language is significant and cannot simply be brushed off as poor phrasing.”
“Apologizing for causing offense does not equate to recognizing the broader implications of one’s words. True leadership requires accountability as well as openness to discourse.”
Ratcliffe told Sky News on Wednesday: “You cannot sustain an economy with 9 million people on benefits alongside significant levels of immigration. The UK is being colonized. This situation incurs excessive costs. The UK has been colonized by immigrants.”
If the FA opts for a formal investigation, its focus may adhere to FA Rule E3.1, which governs general conduct.
This rule states: “Every participant must act in the best interests of the game and refrain from behavior that is improper or harms the game’s reputation or involves violent conduct, serious foul play, or threatening or insulting words or actions.”
Rule E3.2 indicates that a breach of Rule E3.1 could be classified as an “aggravated breach” if it references ethnicity, color, race, nationality, religion or belief, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, or disability.
As a co-owner, Ratcliffe is subject to FA regulations as a participant.
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Burnham, who collaborates with Ratcliffe and Manchester United on the regeneration of the Old Trafford area and stadium, criticized Ratcliffe’s remarks, stating: “These comments contradict everything Manchester has historically represented: a place where individuals of all races and faiths have united to build our city and institutions, including Manchester United FC.”
“Advocating for immigration limits is one thing, but depicting newcomers as a hostile invading force is entirely different. Such portrayals are misleading, insulting, and incendiary and should be retracted.”
“Footballers from around the globe who have joined the Greater Manchester area have enriched our community, as have countless individuals contributing to the NHS and other vital sectors.”
“We value their input as a city region famous for its warm hospitality.”
In what seemed to be a critique of the Glazer family, who hold a majority stake in United, Burnham remarked: “If criticism is warranted, it should be directed at those who have contributed little to our community and instead drained wealth from one of our most cherished institutions.”
ESPN’s Rob Dawson and PA contributed to this story.