Nice manager Frank Haise has ripped into Sir Jim Ratcliffe following the INEOS boss’ comments comparing the Ligue 1 side and Manchester United.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s time as Manchester United partial-owner has been anything but smooth sailing, with the club currently having its worst ever Premier League campaign.
Despite Ratcliffe’s changes at United, the Red Devils sit 13th in the league and over 20 points off second-place Arsenal.
Ruben Amorim, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox were all appointed under the INEOS ownership, but so far, they have yet to find a solution to United’s performance woes.
Unlike United, OGC Nice have turned a corner this season and look set to qualify for the Champions League.
Ratcliffe stays away from Nice
Due to UEFA’s multi-club ownership rules, Ratcliffe has been unable to control Nice, having to stay away to avoid punishment.
Despite INEOS’ absence, Nice have been very impressive and they look set to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2017/18 and the first time under Ratcliffe ownership.
In an interview with The Times, the English businessman said, “The best season that Nice has had is this one where we’ve not been allowed to get involved because of multi-club ownership rules.”
He further added, “They’ve been so much better without our interference! Maybe there’s a lesson there as well, you know.”
Ratcliffe, despite being a successful business owner, is still learning how to own a football club. This lesson could see a new approach at United.
Nice manager responds to Ratcliffe’s comments
Nice manager, Frank Haise, was asked about the owners’ comments in a press conference. He said, “He [Sir Jim Ratcliffe] hasn’t seen a Nice match this season.”
“We have to keep working, enjoying ourselves and doing the best possible,” said Haise later in the interview.
Despite good form, Ratcliffe’s lack of interest in Nice has left its mark on the French team, with the manager saying, “We have to move on.”
While the INEOS owner is unlikely to lose interest in United, a lack of interest in his own football club has to be a serious concern for fans of the Red Devils.
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