Jim Ratcliffe, the minority owner who governs the footballing policies of Manchester United, has demanded an improvement in cleanliness and professionalism from the club’s staff. This followed his description of the state of various facilities as ‘unacceptable’, including the IT department which he labelled as ‘a disgrace’ and certain changing rooms that were ‘not greatly superior’.
Ratcliffe communicated his dissatisfaction following a comprehensive two-day inspection of both Old Trafford and the Carrington training ground. In an email distributed to the entire staff on a Friday afternoon, the business tycoon stressed on the importance of maintaining proper housekeeping standards to formulate a positive impression on visitors, parents of young players, new players, and media personnel.
Drawing a comparison to Ineos, a multibillion-pound company that he owns, Ratcliffe stated that Manchester United – an esteemed sports establishment – failed to meet the expected standards. He communicated, “These standards would not touch what is expected at Ineos, yet we are merely a chemical company. In many ways, it appears trivial but without maintaining standards and discipline, an organisation will not prosper.”
In conclusion, Ratcliffe urged the staff to take a more diligent approach in maintaining cleanliness and professionalism to reflect a better image of the club.