Sheikh Jassim files legal complaint over "defamatory" Manchester United takeover claims

Ratcliffe acquired a 27.7% share in Manchester United in February, prevailing over the Qatari businessman in a highly publicised acquisition struggle.

Jassim, who sought to orchestrate a complete acquisition of the club, withdrew from the process in October after his offer failed to meet the Glazer family's reported £6bn valuation for the sale of Manchester United.

In an interview following his acquisition of a stake in Man Utd, Ratcliffe cast doubt on the existence of his rival, stating, «Still nobody's ever seen him, actually. The Glazers never met him… he never… I'm not sure he exists!»

In addition, Ratcliffe had also implied that the bid led by Sheikh Jassim had failed to provide proof of funds.

According to The Athletic, legal representatives of Sheikh Jassim and his investment vehicle, known as the Nine Two Foundation, have now filed complaints regarding Ratcliffe's remarks.

Sheikh Jassim has raised concerns about Ratcliffe's remarks, with his legal team stating in their communication to Manchester United that Jassim held face-to-face meetings with Joel and Avram Glazer on July 26, 2023.

Additionally, they expressed displeasure over the British billionaire's assertion that the Qataris had overstated the size of their bid.

The report adds that a legal letter dated January 24, 2024, was dispatched to Manchester United's legal representatives detailing their concerns.

In this communication, representatives of the Qataris asserted that the