On Tuesday, 17 years after the American Glazer family bought Manchester United, the soccer club said it was exploring strategic alternatives, including a new investment or sale. According to a statement from Old Trafford, the Glazer family is working with financial advisors to consider a partial sale or investment, including redevelopment of the stadium and infrastructure.
The Glazers have faced intense criticism for failing to win a trophy in five years, and Manchester United fans have been clamoring for a change of ownership. During 2017, the team won the Europa League and the League Cup. Avram Glazer and Joel Glazer, United’s executive co-chairmen and directors, said the board had authorized a thorough evaluation of strategic alternatives.
Manchester United will consider all options available in order to best serve its fans and ensure it can maximize its growth opportunities today and in the future, the club said in a statement. Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese captain, also announced his departure from Old Trafford on Tuesday, a bitter end to his second spell at the club after he said he felt betrayed.