Some members of the Glazer family are considering selling part or all of their stake in Manchester United, potentially paving the way for a major ownership shake-up at one of the world’s most famous football clubs.
According to people familiar with the matter, several members of the US-based billionaire family have been discussing options for divesting their holdings after more than two decades of ownership. The talks reportedly began with individual family members considering selling their shares before efforts were made to persuade others to join a broader exit.
The deliberations come as Manchester United faces the prospect of spending billions of pounds on the redevelopment of its iconic home ground, Old Trafford.
At the same time, the club’s recent qualification for the UEFA Champions League has improved its financial outlook, offering fresh incentives for current owners to remain invested.
Despite the discussions, the Glazer family has not reached a collective decision on a sale. Reports indicate that some family members remain opposed to exiting the club, potentially complicating any attempt to pursue a deal.
Any sale would likely attract strong interest from wealthy investors in the United States and the Middle East. However, acquiring Manchester United would require a significant financial commitment, with the club’s public market valuation standing at roughly $3.6 billion, although a controlling stake would be expected to command a far higher price.
Current executive co-chairmen Avram Glazer and Joel Glazer remain key figures in the ownership structure alongside siblings Kevin, Bryan, Darcie and Edward Glazer, who also serve on the club’s board.
The latest discussions come just over two years after British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe acquired a roughly 29 per cent stake in Manchester United, gaining control of football operations through his company, INEOS.
At the time, the Glazer family reportedly debated whether to sell the club outright but ultimately chose Ratcliffe’s investment over a full takeover proposal from Qatari investors that was valued at more than £5 billion.
The Glazers’ ownership of Manchester United has long divided supporters. The family’s 2005 leveraged buyout, led by the late Malcolm Glazer, saddled the club with substantial debt and triggered years of fan protests.
While early success under legendary manager Alex Ferguson helped ease tensions, performances declined after his retirement in 2013, with the club struggling to consistently challenge for major honours.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
