Gary Lineker has launched a scathing attack on Sir Jim Ratcliffe's stewardship of Manchester United, labelling the club's co-owner an "unpleasant human being" and describing the club's management as "a bit of a shambles" on The Rest is Football podcast. Since Ratcliffe acquired a minority stake and took control of football operations in February 2024, initial optimism has evaporated amongst sections of the fanbase amid disappointing on-pitch performance and controversial decisions. Lineker's comments are significant as they reflect growing frustration with Ratcliffe's leadership, with the broadcaster sarcastically congratulating the unpopular Glazer family for finding "someone even worse" to absorb fan criticism.

Manchester United are currently in 12th place with just five points from five league games this season. The club has gone through two permanent managerial changes under Ratcliffe—Erik ten Hag was sacked in October 2024 despite being handed a new contract, and his successor Ruben Amorim departed after fourteen months. Michael Carrick was appointed permanent manager in the summer following an impressive interim spell. Beyond footballing matters, Ratcliffe has faced considerable criticism for mass staff redundancies, increased ticket prices, season-ticket relocations to make way for hospitality seating, and plans for a new 100,000-capacity stadium. Recently, academy prospect JJ Gabriel, nicknamed "Kid Messi", requested to leave the club, with his family reportedly viewing United as falling well behind European elite such as Barcelona, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.