Former Manchester United takeover contender, Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani, reportedly still harbours hopes of becoming the sole owner of the club. Throughout 2023, Sheikh Jassim was locked in a fierce battle with Sir Jim Ratcliffe to buy United when the Glazers put it on the market.
The American family initially indicated that all options, including a complete sale, were being considered, sparking interest from both businessmen.
As events unfolded, the Glazers seemed more inclined towards selling a minority stake in the club, particularly the football side. While Ratcliffe adjusted his demands, Sheikh Jassim maintained his position for a full acquisition and the elimination of the entire debt accumulated under the Glazers' reign.
On Christmas Eve 2023, United announced that Ratcliffe had emerged victorious in the investment race and by February 2024, his minority stake had been approved by the Premier League. Since then, the Ineos founder has faced criticism for his perceived harsh cost-cutting measures, including layoffs, poor staff appointments, primarily Dan Ashworth, and his decision to displace season ticket holders.
Ratcliffe has conceded that if he were to face the same level of protests as the Glazers have, he would consider leaving the club. According to a new report from The Telegraph, Sheikh Jassim remains hopeful of eventually taking over.
The Qataris maintain that they anticipate United to be fully up for sale in the future, and nothing that the Glazers' and Ratcliffe's partnership have done so far has lessened that expectation. If a bid to takeover United were to be reinitiated, the Qatari banker would need to reinstate The Nine Two UK Holdings Ltd.
This company was established by Sheikh Jassim with the aim of taking over United, paying homage to the Class of '92. However, it was dissolved in September last year after the takeover process had officially concluded.