Sources closely involved in the negotiations have indicated that Ratcliffe intends to exert influence on football-related decisions, potentially reshaping the club's future.

This development comes after Sheikh Jassim's withdrawal from the bidding process was confirmed last Saturday evening. 

Many industry experts have interpreted this withdrawal as a "face-saving" move, as the Qatari bid was ultimately outmanoeuvred by Ineos. 

Ratcliffe's 25% stake at £1.3 billion is a significant negotiation breakthrough

It had become increasingly clear that the Glazer family, represented by Avram and Joel Glazer, were unlikely to agree to a full sale of their 67% stake, which is necessary for unanimity among the club's owners. 

This obstacle led Ineos to explore alternative options.

Ratcliffe's decision to settle for a 25% minority stake, valued at approximately £1.3 billion, is viewed as a strategic breakthrough in recent negotiations. 

This approach also serves to mitigate potential legal challenges that could have arisen if he had pursued the Glazers' more substantial 67% share. 

Shareholders holding A shares had been prepared to resort to litigation if Ratcliffe opted for B shares exclusively, but the compromise of a mixed share acquisition appears to have resolved this issue.

On the other hand, Qatar's persistent insistence on a full sale had become a sticking point in negotiations. Despite offering around £5 billion for Manchester United, their bid was consistently seen as disappointingly low by figures involved in the process. 

Observers have questioned why the Qatari bid didn't reflect the prestige and value associated with the iconic club. 

Some insiders suggest that Qatar's hesitance to increase their offer might be rooted in concerns about appearing to overpay and an eagerness to secure a good deal.

Interestingly, one of the factors contributing to Joel and Avram Glazer's reluctance to sell their controlling stake in the club is their anticipation of a significant increase in Manchester United's valuation over the next decade. 

Their optimism reflects the club's rich history and potential for future growth, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing ownership saga.

As the Ineos acquisition unfolds and discussions continue, the future of Manchester United's ownership structure remains a topic of intense interest in the football community. 

This development could pave the way for significant changes within the club, both on and off the pitch, and only time will tell how these new dynamics will shape the future of one of the world's most iconic football institutions.

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