Jim Ratcliffe has apologized after controversial comments about immigration sparked widespread criticism.
Ratcliffe, a co-owner of Manchester United, said he was sorry if his choice of words “offended some people” after claiming the UK had been colonized by immigrants during a recent interview.
His remarks came during a media interview about immigration and economic challenges, prompting backlash from political leaders and football fans alike.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the comments “offensive and wrong” and urged Ratcliffe to apologize.
Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham criticized the statement as “inaccurate, insulting and inflammatory,” stressing the city’s long history of diversity.
Although Ratcliffe apologized for his language, he also said immigration should be part of a discussion about managing growth and economic policy.
The controversy has drawn reactions from anti-racism groups and sparked debate among Manchester United supporters over the co-owner’s role and remarks.
