The pursuit to acquire Manchester United is primarily led by Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group.
Nasser Al-Khelaifi, the president of Paris St-Germain, has denied any involvement in the takeover of Manchester United.
According to Sport News Center, the Glazer family, the current owners of United, reached out to Al-Khelaifi a month ago in their efforts to persuade Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani to increase his bid.
This interaction with Al-Khelaifi has sparked speculation about a broader Qatari role in Sheikh Jassim’s bid. However, Sheikh Jassim has consistently maintained that his offer is made on a personal basis.
The owners of Manchester United spoke to the chairman of PSG regarding Sheikh Jassim’s bid.
During a meeting of the influential European Clubs’ Association (ECA), which he chairs, Al-Khelaifi addressed the issue in Istanbul before the Champions League final. He emphasized that his involvement is solely with PSG and that he has done nothing out of the ordinary.
“Paris St-Germain is my club, it holds a special place in my heart, and I have no connection to Manchester United,” Al-Khelaifi stated.
He expressed amusement at the situation, pointing out his Qatari nationality and the fact that people seek his opinion on various matters, not limited to Manchester United. He stated that he would provide them with his expertise if asked.
Sheikh Jassim recently submitted his fifth bid for Manchester United, which remains on the table despite initial indications that he would not continue the process beyond a specific deadline. He aims to acquire 100% ownership of the club, while competing bidder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos Group are willing to secure a majority stake, allowing the Glazer family to retain some representation.
Al-Khelaifi is the chairman of beIN Sport, a state-owned broadcaster based in Doha, and also oversees Qatari Sports Investments.
Last month, he demonstrated his willingness to offer advice by disclosing that he had conversed with a wealthy group seeking information regarding potential investments in two English clubs. Although he did not disclose the names of the clubs, he shared his opinions with them.
Al-Khelaifi, who denies meeting with the Raine Group, responsible for managing the sale process of Manchester United, expressed his support for new investments in football, both from Qatar and other sources.
“I want the best for European competitions,” he affirmed. “If it complies with the regulations, why not? Not only Qatar, but for everyone.”
In addition, Al-Khelaifi commented on the ongoing developments surrounding the remaining three members of the European Super League and Juventus’ call for discussions with Real Madrid and Barcelona in hopes of withdrawing from the project.
Juventus has faced financial controversy due to accounting practices, resulting in a 10-point deduction and their exclusion from the Champions League.
Although Juventus previously remained committed to the Super League initiative, awaiting a ruling from the European Courts of Justice regarding UEFA’s potential monopoly, they have now distanced themselves from that position. Al-Khelaifi views this as a prudent decision.
“It is a wise choice for them to withdraw,” he remarked. “There is no future there. They are wasting time, energy, and money.”
He further emphasized the importance of recognizing and rectifying mistakes, welcoming back those who acknowledge their errors. Al-Khelaifi believes this is the course of action Juventus should take.
4 comments
LOL, Al-Khelaifi is like “nah, man, I ain’t got nothin’ to do with Man Utd takeover!” But people be talkin’ ’bout Qatar and stuff. Sheikh Jassim be sayin’ his offer all personal, you know. Crazy drama goin’ on!
I heard the Glazers contacted Al-Khelaifi to get Sheikh Jassim to up his offer. But Al-Khelaifi’s all like, “I’m all about PSG, not Man Utd, mate!” He’s just giving his two cents, nothing more. Let’s see who ends up owning our club!
Sheikh Jassim and Ineos Group are battlin’ it out for Man Utd. But Al-Khelaifi denies any involvement. He’s the boss at PSG, not United. I think he’s just showin’ support for new investment in football. And Juventus finally wised up and left that Super League mess. Good for them!
Al-Khelaifi says he got nothin’ to do with Man Utd, just PSG. He’s offerin’ advice and talkin’ ’bout investments. Sheikh Jassim keepin’ it personal with his bid. Juve makin’ the right move by ditchin’ the Super League. Football drama never stops, man!