Sir Jim Ratcliffe played down suggestions he could buy Manchester United this week, speaking at a Financial Times conference.
He confirmed he has spoken with the Glazers, only to be told the club is not for sale.
Ratcliffe explained: “If it had been for sale we probably would have had a go. We can’t sit around hoping United will become available.”
He was also complimentary about the Glazers as individuals, which former star Gary Neville suspects is a tactic.
Neville says he is ‘frustrated’ Glazers won’t sell Manchester United
Speaking about Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments, Neville says he understands the disappointment there may be among fans.
He also says supporters will be savvy enough to recognise Ratcliffe may cleverly be playing a long game, and that his comments may merely be a tactic to keep the door open.
Neville told The Mail: “I think they [supporters] will be frustrated – but I think they will also recognise that Jim Ratcliffe was very respectful towards the family.
“I think if you’re going to be disrespectful to the family, they’re not going to do business with you in the future.
“What he did felt like to me ‘look, the owners don’t want to sell but they were very decent with me’ and if that changes in the future, then maybe he’ll be there.
“I can’t see how this is sustainable, how they can’t bring in investment, or a partner or sell. I just can’t see it. They haven’t got the money to be able to do what Manchester United need.”
Neville says he feels the Glazers must have some kind of plan because they simply lack the funds themselves to invest in Manchester United’s infrastructure in the way which is required.
He added: “I was a little bit frustrated that the conversation with Jim Ratcliffe wasn’t extended but on the other hand they must be up to something.”
Fed up Manchester United supporters are desperate for the Glazers to sell up, with the club now more than £500 million in debt.
Figures showed more than £33 million has been paid out in dividends over the past year too, despite the club’s worst ever Premier League season.
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox
