Radcliffe criticises former Manchester United players as ‘underperforming’ and ‘overly compensated’

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, has expressed strong criticism towards several underperforming players at the club, labelling them as “not good enough” and “probably overpaid”.

Since taking on the responsibility for football operations at Old Trafford in February last year, Ratcliffe has faced a challenging start to his tenure.

The British billionaire has identified Rasmus Hojlund, Andre Onana, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, and Antony as significant sources of his frustration.

Currently, Sancho and Antony are on loan at Chelsea and Real Betis respectively, following disappointing spells at United.

While discussing United’s ongoing payments for transfer fees of several out-of-form players, Ratcliffe, who co-owns the club with the US-based Glazer family, remarked to the BBC: “If you look at the players we are acquiring this summer, those we didn’t sign, we’re effectively buying Antony, we’re buying Casemiro, we’re buying Onana, we’re buying Hojlund, we’re buying Sancho.”

“These are all remnants from the past, whether we like it or not; we’ve inherited these issues and need to address them.”

“For Sancho, who is now at Chelsea and for whom we pay half his wages, we’re set to pay £17 million to secure him this summer.”

When asked if he believed these players were inadequate for United, Ratcliffe replied: “Some are not good enough, and some are likely overpaid, but to reshape the squad that we are completely responsible for and accountable for will require time.”

After witnessing United finish eighth in the Premier League last season and claiming the FA Cup, Ratcliffe and his advisors chose to retain Erik ten Hag as manager despite the team’s lacklustre performances throughout the season.

However, the Dutchman was dismissed in October and replaced by Ruben Amorim following another dismal run of results.

INEOS chairman Ratcliffe acknowledged that keeping Ten Hag was a misstep.

He also admitted his decision to appoint Dan Ashworth as sporting director, a position he vacated in December after a mere five months, was misguided.

“I admit the decisions regarding Erik ten Hag and Dan Ashworth were errors,” the 72-year-old stated.

“There were some extenuating circumstances, but ultimately they were mistakes. I accept that and I apologise.”

Despite United’s ongoing challenges since Amorim’s appointment, which has left them in 14th place in the Premier League, Ratcliffe maintained his belief in the capabilities of the former Sporting Lisbon manager.

“If I genuinely assess the squad available to Ruben, I think he is doing a commendable job, to be honest,” he said.

“I regard Ruben as an exceptional young manager. I truly believe he is an excellent manager and that he will be with us long-term.”