Manchester United confirm takeover as Sir Jim Ratcliffe sends message to supporters

Manchester United supporters and reporters were sent into a Christmas Eve frenzy on Sunday evening after confirmation of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment.

United and INEOS made the announcement on Sunday afternoon, confirming the 71-year-old's arrival as a minority shareholder as his purchase of a 25 per cent stake in the club was finally confirmed. He will take control of footballing decisions at the club and looks set to bring in Jean-Claude Blanc and Sir Dave Brailsford.

The announcement came just over 24 hours after United were beaten 2-0 at West Ham. Erik ten Hag's side have now lost 13 games this season, their highest tally before Christmas since 1930.

LIVE: Takeover latest as Sir Jim Ratcliffe announcement imminent

ALSO READ: The Glazers' first words as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's investment into United confirmed

Here are your Monday morning headlines.

Takeover announcement

INEOS Sport has officially announced that it has agreed to purchase a minority stake in United.

The chemical giant, which is governed by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has confirmed that it has agreed a deal with the Glazer family to acquire a 25 per cent stake in the club. INEOS entered the takeover race back in February and has been the frontrunner ever since Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, who was their main rival, withdrew from the process last month.

Initially, in the statement they released back in February, INEOS wanted to secure majority ownership of United. However, the Glazers have been reluctant to sell the club throughout the whole process, despite receiving appealing bids from both INEOS and Sheikh Jassim.

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Ratcliffe message

Sir Jim Ratcliffe has vowed to return Manchester United to