Manchester United have issued a statement that insists they are a ‘inclusive and welcoming club’ in light of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s inflammatory immigration comments.
On Wednesday, Ratcliffe claimed the UK has been ‘colonised by immigrants’ – with his remarks causing a backlash.
As revealed exclusively by Daily Mail Sport, senior Manchester United officials are ‘mortified’ by the 73-year-old’s views, amid fears over the impact on players and plans for a new £2billion stadium.
And on Thursday afternoon, the Red Devils released their own statement opposed to Ratcliffe, albeit without directly mentioning him.
‘Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club’ their statement begins.
‘Our diverse group of players, staff and global community of supporters, reflect the history and heritage of Manchester; a city that anyone can call home.
Manchester United have released a statement opposing the views of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe
‘Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.
‘We remain deeply committed to the principles and spirit of that campaign. They are reflected in our policies but also in our culture and are reinforced by our holding of the Premier League’s Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard.
‘Over the course of this season, we have participated in events and initiatives at our men’s and women’s games marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, No Room for Racism, violence against women and girls and homophobic chanting.
‘We have also celebrated our supporters’ clubs’ events, including our Disabled Supporters’ Association’s Christmas Party and our Jewish Supporters’ Club’s Chanukah event.
‘In the weeks and months ahead, we will be supporting further initiatives in these areas.
‘This all sits alongside the incredible work which the Manchester United Foundation undertakes in and around Manchester on a daily basis.
‘Manchester United reflects the unity and resilience of all the communities we are so privileged to represent.
‘We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.’
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