Football Supporters’ Association chair Tom Greatrex appeared on Sky News yesterday to condemn Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s “colonisation” comments, which were also criticised by a range of the club’s supporters’ groups.

Speaking to Sky News FSA chair Tom Greatrex said:

“You might have to get VAR in to check if Ratcliffe’s apology actually crossed the goal line, as it was heavily qualified, suggesting he didn’t really want to apologise, although that’s less important than what he actually said.

“And what he said reflects pretty badly on how well he understands the leadership position he has in football, and the supporter base of the club that he’s associated with. Football and the city of Manchester, and many other communities, have benefited from people who come to the UK to play football or for other reasons, and have become part of the club.

“His leadership position in football comes with responsibility as public discourse is often shaped by the way in which comments are made. There are different views regarding immigration but he talked about “colonisation” and got facts wrong, and fails to understand that the club is built on the contribution of people from all over the world.

“I hope Jim Ratcliffe reflects and actually engages with the people in and around his club. I’ve seen the statement from Manchester United itself that talks about being an inclusive club. That club will not feel inclusive to many of its supporters and supporters’ groups when they read comments put across in that way. 

“Being in control of one of the biggest football clubs in the world brings with it a responsibility to get your facts right, to express yourself in a responsible way, and to understand that football – whether it’s via players, managers or spectators – has benefitted from the talents of people that have come to the UK from lots of different places.”

What did others say?

Manchester United Supporters’ Trust:

Manchester United belongs to all of its supporters. No fan should feel excluded from following or supporting the club because of their race, religion, nationality or background. Comments from the club’s senior leadership should make inclusion easier, not harder.

— MUST | Manchester United Supporters Trust (@MU_ST) February 11, 2026

Manchester United Muslims Supporters Club:

Our Chair & Co-Founder @asif_jmahmud speaking to Sky News this evening in response to Jim Ratcliffe’s comments.pic.twitter.com/q8otdXF4ZN

— MUMSC (@mum_sc) February 12, 2026

Kick It Out:

Kick It Out statement:

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…

— Kick It Out (@kickitout) February 11, 2026

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