As Manchester United’s women’s team secured their seventh consecutive league win against Crystal Palace, a growing sense of optimism surrounds the squad, who currently sit second in the Women’s Super League (WSL). However, this positive momentum stands in contrast to the general mood within the club, with the men’s side struggling and the latest reports indicating further job losses. Despite the excellent performances on the pitch, some supporters are voicing frustration with the level of backing the women’s team is receiving from minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
This week marks the one-year anniversary of Ineos’s acquisition of Manchester United, but questions remain about Ratcliffe’s involvement and his commitment to the women’s side. While there is no widespread animosity towards Ratcliffe, many fans are disappointed by his apparent lack of interest in the women’s team. Despite his recent investment in the men’s side, his public statements have suggested that the women’s team is not a priority for him. Fans have expressed that they would like to see more support from the owner, both financially and publicly, particularly as the women’s game continues to grow in prominence.
At the most recent game at Leigh Sports Village, supporters couldn’t help but feel that the team’s success was achieved despite the ownership’s focus elsewhere. One fan, Aimee, who had traveled from Wales to see the game, commented on the team’s potential, noting that with more backing from Ratcliffe, they could achieve even greater things. Another fan, Martyn, who regularly attends men’s games but enjoys bringing his daughter to the women’s fixtures, noted how refreshing it was to attend a United game where victory was expected. His optimism was rewarded when Elisabeth Terland put United ahead, although Crystal Palace did manage to equalize before half-time. Nevertheless, United regained control in the second half, with Terland scoring again, followed by Grace Clinton’s header from an Ella Toone free-kick.
Even though the women’s team continues to deliver strong performances, the lack of visible support from the ownership remains a sore point for some fans. Andy Slater, the editor of the fanzine Barmy Article, criticized the attitude of the ownership, suggesting that the women’s team doesn’t require massive investments like Chelsea’s but simply needs sufficient support to succeed. He pointed out that the team has turned things around since the winter break and is currently playing exciting football, which could lead to a bright future if the necessary support is provided.
Mina Ibrahim, a long-time follower of the women’s team, also shared her mixed feelings about the current situation. She acknowledged the positive steps taken during the previous summer’s transfer window, which saw the arrival of a proven goalscorer. However, she expressed disappointment with Ratcliffe’s public comments, which have often suggested that the women’s team isn’t a priority. For Ibrahim, the most crucial aspect is seeing Ratcliffe and the ownership take a more active and supportive role in promoting the women’s side both publicly and privately. With the women’s game continuing to expand, Ibrahim believes that investment in the team is essential to closing the gap to top competitors like Chelsea.
One common request among fans is for Ratcliffe and other Ineos representatives to show more visible support for the women’s team by attending matches. So far, Ratcliffe has not been seen at any of the women’s fixtures at Leigh Sports Village, although other club figures, such as CEO Omar Berrada, have made appearances. The fans’ desire for greater involvement from the ownership is evident, with many staying outside the players’ entrance after the match, hoping to interact with the players and staff. Perhaps one day, Ratcliffe will join them, and in doing so, demonstrate his commitment to the growth of the women’s team.
Despite the frustrations with the ownership, the women’s team’s success on the pitch offers a beacon of hope for the future. With continued strong performances, a little more backing from Ratcliffe and Ineos could help propel them to even greater heights. The fans remain hopeful that the team will receive the recognition and investment it deserves as it continues to shine in the WSL.
