We want to bring United to the level of Real Madrid, but it takes time

Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, admitted this Thursday that he plans to bring the English giant to the same level as the current European and Spanish champion, Real Madrid, but warned that it will take time to achieve this goal.

In an interview with Bloomberg, the CEO of INEOS stated that it will take "two or three transfer windows" to get the club "to a better place."

"There is room for improvement in everything at Manchester United, and we will improve everything. We want to be where Real Madrid is today, but that will take time. I'm not confident that we will solve all the problems in the first transfer window. Manchester United doesn't have any player valued at 100 million euros or more," he noted, also considering that buying a big star "will not solve the club's problem."

Ratcliffe also lamented that the appointments of sporting director Dan Ashworth from Newcastle and CEO Omar Berrada from rivals Manchester City have not yet been finalized, which is delaying his plans to invest in the team. "We are somewhat handicapped in that regard, but I think we will do a good job," he commented.

The billionaire's comments come amid growing pressure from fans and analysts who are eager to see significant improvements at the club. United, once a dominant force in English and European football, has struggled in recent years to reclaim its former glory. Ratcliffe's vision includes a comprehensive overhaul of the team's infrastructure, talent acquisition, and overall strategy.

Ratcliffe emphasized the importance of building a solid foundation for long-term success rather than seeking quick fixes. This approach includes investing in the club's youth academy, enhancing scouting networks, and developing a cohesive playing philosophy that aligns with the club's storied traditions.

"We need to focus on sustainable growth," Ratcliffe said. "Quick fixes might offer immediate results, but they are not conducive to building a team that can compete consistently at the highest level. Our goal is to create a balanced and dynamic squad that can challenge for top honors year after year."

Furthermore, Ratcliffe acknowledged the challenges posed by the competitive nature of the Premier League and the financial muscle of rival clubs. He stressed the need for strategic planning and prudent investments to ensure United can compete effectively both domestically and in Europe.

The club's fans have reacted with cautious optimism to Ratcliffe's statements, recognizing the need for patience but hopeful for a brighter future. The forthcoming transfer windows will be crucial in determining how quickly and effectively Ratcliffe's vision can be realized.

As United gears up for the next season, the focus will be on identifying and securing key targets that align with the club's long-term objectives. The management team's ability to navigate the complexities of the transfer market and secure top talent will be instrumental in steering the club back to the pinnacle of European football.

Gimenez immediately makes his mark in Milan: 'He gets it right away'

Santiago Gimenez made an immediate impact on Wednesday night in his debut for AC Milan. Thanks to an assist for fellow newcomer João Félix, the striker, who joined from Feyenoord, earned praise right away.

Steven Gerrard is no longer the head coach of Al Ettifaq

Steven Gerrard has left Al Ettifaq by mutual agreement after a disappointing tenure in Saudi Arabia. The former Liverpool captain, who took charge in July 2023, struggled to deliver consistent results, leaving the club in 12th place.

Saudi Arabia offers €350M for Vinícius Jr

Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly targeting Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. as their latest high-profile signing. Al Ahli is prepared to offer €350 million for the Brazilian forward, with Al Nassr and Al Hilal also showing interest.

MLS club wants to sign Neymar from Al Hilal

The Brazilian forward has a contract until June, but Al Hilal is willing to let him leave now. Chicago Fire has reportedly already met with Neymar's representatives.

Man Utd ties one of its few bright spots to the club until 2030

Amad Diallo is now a Manchester United player until mid-2030. The English record champions announced on Thursday evening that the 22-year-old Ivorian will remain at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future.

Neuer punished with a two-match suspension in the German Cup

Manuel Neuer, Bayern Munich's legendary goalkeeper, received the first red card of his illustrious career during the German Cup round of 16 against Bayer Leverkusen.

France hosts Israel under maximum security for politically charged match

France hosts Israel today in a match that will feature an unprecedented police presence. Highly controversial, the game is marked by pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian movements.

Oosting forced to make changes and surprises with starting lineup against Nice

FC Twente coach Joseph Oosting was forced to make multiple changes to his lineup in the Europa League match against OGC Nice. Due to the absence of key players Mees Hilgers (not fit), Sem Steijn (sick), and Lars Unnerstall, a surprising starting eleven will take the field at 6:45 pm.

Sergio Ramos? Whenever I had players like that, I sent them away

The former Liverpool coach once again criticized the ex-Real Madrid center-back over an incident in which he injured Mohamed Salah during the Champions League final in 2022, which he lost with the Reds.

Erik ten Hag responds to Mourinho: 'He will succeed, and so will we'

The Portuguese coach, now at Fenerbahçe, will face Manchester United again this Thursday in the Europa League.

Good news for Barcelona: Olmo returns to the training field

Dani Olmo has rejoined Barcelona's group training. The midfielder missed the last seven matches due to a muscle injury he sustained on September 16 in the match against Girona.

Van de Ven is keen on forming a central duo with Van Dijk: 'Fantastic defender'

Micky van de Ven is open to playing alongside Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the defense for the Dutch national team. Due to several injuries, opportunities are opening up for the 23-year-old speedster. 'But it’s up to the coach,' he said.

Another one: Bremer, from Juventus, with a ligament injury in his left knee

Juventus faces a setback as Gleison Bremer suffered a serious ACL injury, sidelining him for at least six months. Nico González also picked up an injury, adding to the challenges for coach Massimiliano Allegri in both domestic and European competitions.

Young Nwaneri makes a statement at Arsenal: 'He’s ahead of his time'

Two years after his debut, Ethan Nwaneri knocked more firmly on Mikel Arteta's door at Arsenal on Wednesday evening. The teenager marked his first start in the League Cup match against Bolton Wanderers with two goals.

They don't want to give the Ballon d'Or to Vinícius, but it wouldn't be a great injustice

Djalminha, a former Brazilian international, commented on several topics related to the current situation of the Real Madrid winger, including the uninspired phase he is going through with his national team and the controversy that arose after he stated that "if racism doesn't change," Spain should not host the 2030 World Cup.

Top Countries

Around the web

De Jong appears to be winning the battle with Casadó: 'Frenkie is doing very well'

Frenkie de Jong appears to be gradually winning the competition against Marc Casadó at Barcelona. The 27-year-old Dutch international started once again on Monday night against Rayo Vallecano (1-0), and Hansi Flick does not seem to have any plans to remove De Jong from his starting lineup.

'Extraterrestrial' Mbappé goes around the world: 'Beyond all proportions'

The international media were highly impressed by Kylian Mbappé on Wednesday. The 26-year-old Frenchman led Real Madrid past Manchester City with a hat-trick, making headlines around the world.

Endrick could be loaned out by Real Madrid next season

Endrick, the 18-year-old Brazilian forward, is reportedly concerned about his lack of playing time at Real Madrid, fearing it could affect his chances with the national team.

The lock on the door for Slot: how Endo is so important for Liverpool

Wataru Endo is the lock on the door for Arne Slot: Liverpool has not conceded a single goal in the Premier League with the Japanese midfielder on the pitch. "The fact that he is always ready for the team despite limited minutes makes him special," the coach said about his midfielder on Tuesday afternoon.

Yamal disappoints top clubs: 'Unthinkable for me to join another club'

Lamine Yamal is still only seventeen years old and is likely the most sought-after talent on the international stage. However, top clubs can keep their wallets in their pockets Yamal has no intention of going anywhere else.

Milan holds emergency meeting after Champions League failure

Milan is facing a crisis after being eliminated from the Champions League against Feyenoord. The disappointing European campaign led to an emergency meeting at the training center, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Sérgio Conceição, and senior players analyzing the situation.

Liverpool's out-of-tune player takes the blame in England: 'He keeps surprising us'

Darwin Núñez was the scapegoat after Liverpool's dropped points away at Aston Villa. The Uruguayan missed a huge chance in front of an open goal, causing the league leaders to be held to just a point in Birmingham. Núñez faced heavy criticism in England.

Concerns at Bayern over Kane's injury and current form: 'There is no joy in playing'

Bayern Munich narrowly escaped embarrassment against Celtic in the Champions League play-off round on Tuesday but lost Harry Kane to a calf injury. Bayern's performance has sparked considerable criticism in Germany and gave Joshua Kimmich a flashback to a previous European debacle.

Man Utd confirms the amount of severance pay for Ten Hag and staff

Manchester United announced on Wednesday how much the club paid for the departure of Erik ten Hag and his staff. Meanwhile, Raphaël Varane has spoken out about his difficult working relationship with the Dutch manager.

Brest falls without Bizot: 'Felt like a professional thrashing'

Paris Saint-Germain has "sent a message to Europe" with their 7-0 victory over Stade Brest, according to the French media. However, Brest manager Éric Roy’s lineup played into the hands of the Parisians, as noted in reports: "Without saying it outright, he admitted that he didn’t believe in it," wrote the Breton newspaper Ouest France.