Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have made a brutal decision regarding Sir Alex Ferguson (Image: The FA via Getty Images)
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made a bold statement that "no-one is safe" at Manchester United by dismissing Sir Alex Ferguson, Rio Ferdinand believes.
During a face-to-face meeting with the club's co-owner, Ferguson was informed that his services as a global ambassador were no longer needed. The iconic former United boss has raked in close to £25million from the role, in which he earned £2.16m annually, since he retired in May 2013.
Despite the ruthless decision, the 82-year-old accepted the decision with dignity and is expected to keep supporting the team at matches, both at Old Trafford and away. Ratcliffe's decision to let Ferguson go marks the most contentious and high-profile move in his cost-cutting drive since he took the reins at United in February.
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The INEOS chief has been vocal about his view that United have been squandering funds, and is adamant that slashing costs is vital if the club want to restore the glory days. He has cut 250 positions in an effort to save approximately £10m, and has also scrapped the staff Christmas party.
Ferdinand, who played under Ferguson's tutelage for 11 of his 12 years at United and remains closely connected to the club, suggests that Ferguson's departure might be part of a broader strategy from Ratcliffe.
He took to Twitter, writing: "If Sir Alex can be taken out, then NO ONE IS SAFE at Man Utd anyone can get it now. Ineos sending a message to ANYONE at the club?!?" Ratcliffe, who has already slashed the club's workforce by roughly 25%, appears determined to identify further cost-saving opportunities.
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The 71-year-old, owner of OGC Nice and Lausanne, with stakes in cycling, sailing, and F1 as well, is known for his ruthless business approach. Holding a one-third share in the Mercedes F1 team, Ratcliffe's style was summed up by team principal Toto Wolff in October 2023: "This is a no bull**** organisation," he remarked about INEOS.
"They are huge in terms of revenue and profit. Decisions are being made quickly three bullet points on a page and 'here we go'. With Jim all the bull**** is cut out. So I think wherever he gets his power, and his resource and character behind it, that's going to be an add-on for any team."
