The Manchester United Muslim Supporters Club (MUMSC) released a statement following Ratcliffe’s remarks in which he claimed the country had been “colonised” by immigrants. During a discussion about British politics, Ratcliffe argued that the government must take “difficult” and unpopular decisions — similar to those he says his Ineos leadership has already implemented at Old Trafford.
Speaking to Sky News about political issues in Britain, the United co-owner said: “If you really want to tackle the major problems of immigration, with people choosing benefits instead of working for a living, then you’re going to have to take actions that are unpopular and show courage.
“You can’t run an economy with nine million people on benefits and massive levels of immigration. I mean, the UK has been colonised. It’s costing too much money. The UK has effectively been colonised by immigrants, hasn’t it? The population was 58 million in 2020 and now it’s around 70 million. That’s an increase of 12 million people.”
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Ratcliffe’s remarks prompted MUMSC to respond via X (formerly Twitter) with a strongly worded statement.
The group underlined Manchester United’s identity as a diverse, worldwide club and urged for leadership that promotes unity rather than division.
The statement said: “We are deeply troubled by language describing the UK as having been ‘colonised’ by immigrants, as well as by positive references to political figures whose rhetoric on immigration and minority communities has long been divisive.
“The word ‘colonised’ is not neutral. It reflects language often used in far-right narratives that portray migrants as invaders and demographic threats. Such language carries serious real-world consequences.
“The UK has seen continued increases in hate crime in recent years, including rises in Islamophobia, antisemitism, racially motivated violence and hostility toward migrants and people of colour.
“Public language influences public behaviour. When prominent individuals use wording that echoes extremist talking points, it risks normalising prejudice and worsening social divisions.
“Manchester United is a global club built on diversity — with players, staff and supporters from every faith, ethnicity and background. The strength of both our club and our country lies in that diversity.
“Discussion about immigration policy is valid. However, it must be conducted responsibly, without language that marginalises communities or reinforces narratives linked to intolerance. We stand with all those who reject racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia and hatred in all its forms, and we call for leadership that brings people together rather than drives them apart.”
