Man United latest: Sir David Beckham given takeover backing as Sir Jim Ratcliffe stance clear

Ratcliffe faces mounting fan pressure after Roma win; former striker Cisse backs Beckham as potential takeover alternative.

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has come under sustained criticism from supporters despite the team's 3-2 Champions League comeback victory over Roma on Tuesday, which ended a nine-match winless run. Fans launched a demonstration at Old Trafford during the match, directing chants at Ratcliffe and the Glazer family over their ownership of the club.

Ratcliffe, who acquired a 25 per cent stake in December 2023, previously told The Times he would step down if fan backlash reached the levels experienced by the Glazers, saying the abuse would eventually become intolerable for him and his family. He noted that the Glazers have "retreated into the shadows" and he is now bearing the brunt of supporter discontent.

Former Premier League striker Djibril Cisse has proposed David Beckham, the Inter Miami co-owner, as a credible successor should INEOS decide to offload their stake. Cisse praised Beckham's executive experience and global standing, and suggested Roy Keane could be appointed manager alongside a Beckham-led takeover.