EXCLUSIVE: Sir Jim Ratcliffe sacks Man Utd chief for signing 'dud' Casemiro
Steve Kay
- 23 Nov 2023 08:10 CST
- 3 min read
Exclusive
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been left hugely unimpressed with Manchester United’s signing of Casemiro and it was a significant factor in Richard Arnold’s upcoming departure, FootballTransfers understands.
We are told that the Ineos chief, who is set to take over a 25 per cent stake in the Premier League giants, could not get his head around the club’s decision to sign the veteran midfielder from Real Madrid last summer - with sources telling us that the British billionaire believed he was a ‘dud’.
Sources inform us that the move was a huge reason why Arnold, the club’s CEO, was forced announce his resignation earlier this month.
Casemiro was signed from Real Madrid for €60million plus €10m add-ons in 2022. The Brazil international was a key member of Man Utd’s third-place finish in the Premier League last season, as they earned a Champions League spot.
But this campaign, Casemiro’s form has left a lot to be desired, while there have been suggestions that he would be open to a move to the Saudi Pro League in the January transfer window, something Man Utd could be open to given his huge wages.
It’s partly the reason why Man Utd now have made inquiries over possible targets for the No.6 position. FootballTransfers exclusively revealed tthat the club had approached Fluminense to ask about Andre, who is also liked by Fulham.
Richard Arnoold to leave Man Utd
Last week the club released a statement announcing that Arnold, who has been at Man Utd since 2007, woud be leaving Old Trafford.
“Richard Arnold has decided to step down as chief executive of Manchester United after 16 years with the club,” it “Patrick Stewart will take over as interim CEO, in addition to his existing role as general counsel, with Richard continuing to provide transitional support until the end of December. A search process will be carried out for a new permanent CEO.”
Arnold said: “It has been an incredible privilege to serve this great football club for the past 16 years. Through highs and lows, the constant has been the dedication of our employees and fans.
“I would like to thank all of them for their loyalty and commitment, and wish everyone associated with the club the very best for the future.”
