Man Utd break silence with assertion on co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s immigrants feedback

Manchester United have broken their silence following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s claims about immigrants.

The 73-year-old INEOS chief has apologised after claiming that the country has been “colonised by immigrants” in a scathing interview about the immigration system and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Ratcliffe claimed that the UK will struggle with massive economic problems and political chaos as more pressure piles on the welfare state to care for incoming foreigners.

Ratcliffe has come under scrutiny, none more so than by United fans, for his remarks and the club have now issued a statement. It reads: “Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club.

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“Our diverse group of players, staff and global community of supporters, reflect the history and heritage of Manchester; a city that anyone can call home.

“Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.

“We remain deeply committed to the principles and spirit of that campaign. They are reflected in our policies but also in our culture and are reinforced by our holding of the Premier League’s Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard.

“Over the course of this season, we have participated in events and initiatives at our men’s and women’s games marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, No Room for Racism, violence against women and girls and homophobic chanting.

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“We have also celebrated our supporters’ clubs’ events, including our Disabled Supporters’ Association’s Christmas Party and our Jewish Supporters’ Club’s Chanukah event. In the weeks and months ahead, we will be supporting further initiatives in these areas.

“This all sits alongside the incredible work which the Manchester United Foundation undertakes in and around Manchester on a daily basis.

“Manchester United reflects the unity and resilience of all the communities we are so privileged to represent. We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.”

Earlier on Thursday, Ratcliffe apologised for his choice of words but defended his intended meaning and concerns about the state of immigration in Great Britain.

“I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern, but it is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth,” he said.

“My comments were made while answering questions about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where I was discussing the importance of economic growth, jobs, skills and manufacturing in the UK.

“My intention was to stress that governments must manage migration alongside investment in skills, industry and jobs so that long-term prosperity is shared by everyone. It is critical that we maintain an open debate on the challenges facing the UK.”

Ratcliffe was slammed for his comments by Starmer, who called them “offensive and wrong.” The Prime Minister’s spokesman also said it is “right” that Ratcliffe has apologised.

Anti-discrimination body Kick It Out said: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments are disgraceful and deeply decisive at a time when football does so much to bring communities together.”

While the FA will reportedly examine whether his comments have brought the game into disrepute.