Manchester United fans display pro-immigration banner after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ‘UK colonised by immigrants’ comments
Manchester United supporters at Old Trafford unveiled a banner bearing the message “MUFC proudly colonised by immigrants” during Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace.
The message directly challenges remarks made by the club’s minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
The demonstration came in response to Ratcliffe’s Sky News interview last month, during which he said that the UK had been “colonised by immigrants” who were “costing too much money”.
The banner was raised as players returned to the pitch for the second half.
Many fans expressed their displeasure at comments from an owner whose popularity has declined since acquiring his stake in late 2023.
The banner featured images of several players who have represented the club from overseas.
Current captain Bruno Fernandes appeared alongside club legend Eric Cantona, while former player and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was also depicted.
South Korean midfielder Park Ji-sung and French defender Patrice Evra, both key figures during the Sir Alex Ferguson era, were included in the display.
Manchester United supporters at Old Trafford unveiled a banner
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Present squad members Amad Diallo, the Ivorian winger, and Brazilian midfielder Casemiro completed the selection of players showcased on the banner, emphasising the significant contributions made by foreign-born talent throughout the club’s history.
Ratcliffe’s remarks drew condemnation from senior political figures, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham among those criticising the businessman.
In the aftermath, Ratcliffe released a statement expressing regret if his words had “offended some people”.
Manchester United has also released its own statement highlighting the inclusivity initiatives it participates in.
The message directly challenges remarks made by the club’s minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe
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PA
The Football Association subsequently issued a reminder to the minority owner regarding his obligations when speaking publicly, though the governing body opted not to impose any formal punishment.
This decision attracted criticism from Kick It Out, the anti-discrimination organisation, which expressed dissatisfaction with the FA’s choice not to pursue further sanctions against Ratcliffe.
The statement said: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments are disgraceful and deeply divisive at a time when football does so much to bring communities together.
“In addition to the inaccurate figures mentioned, it’s worth reminding him that Manchester United has a diverse fan base and plays in a city whose cultural history has been enriched by immigrants. This type of language and leadership has no place in English football and we believe most fans will feel the same.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe said Britain has been ‘colonised by immigrants’ | GETTYThe controversy began when Jim Ratcliffe told Sky News: “You can’t have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the UK is being colonised. It’s costing too much money. The UK has been colonised by immigrants.”
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has broken his silence on the investigation, suggesting that everybody associated with the club has a “responsibility” to be respectful.
He said: “Sir Jim made his statement and the club made a statement on the back of it. It is not my place to add to that. Enough has ben said in that regard. I have been around this club for many years, we make a huge impact globally and we are responsible for that. Throughout the years, as a player and member of staff as a supporter, we are really proud of the environment and culture we’ve got at the club.
“Equality and diversity and respect for each other is something we look to carry through every day. I have travelled the world and know what this club means to a lot of people. I am aware of the responsibility we have.”
