Two Man Utd legends attack Ratcliffe over 2028 title plan and treatment of fans

Former Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt has delivered a damning verdict on his old club’s prospects, claiming they stand “no chance” of lifting the Premier League title by 2028.

Meanwhile, club legend Ryan Giggs has taken aim at co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, accusing him of alienating supporters with steep ticket price increases.

Butt, who won six league titles during his 12-year stint at Old Trafford, spoke candidly about United’s current trajectory under manager Ruben Amorim.

Despite the Portuguese coach’s arrival in late 2024 sparking some optimism, Butt believes the Red Devils are still years away from challenging the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal.

“The gap’s too big,” he told Sky Sports. “You look at the squad, the inconsistency, the injuries – they’re nowhere near ready. I’d be shocked if they’re champions by 2028.”

The 50-year-old pointed to a lack of cohesion and long-term planning as key issues. “It’s not just about buying players; it’s about building something sustainable. Right now, United are a million miles off that. City and Liverpool have set the bar, and United aren’t even in the conversation.”

Butt’s pessimism comes amid a turbulent season for United, who sit mid-table in the Premier League as of March 2025.

The club’s transfer strategy, overseen by Ratcliffe since his 25% takeover in 2024, has drawn mixed reviews, with big-money moves failing to yield immediate results.

Adding fuel to the fire, Giggs has publicly criticized Ratcliffe for his handling of supporter relations. The Welsh icon, who made over 900 appearances for United, slammed the decision to hike ticket prices, which has sparked outrage among fans.

“Sir Jim’s come in talking about fixing the club, but turfing out loyal supporters with these increases is a disgrace,” Giggs said at a charity event. “Fans are the heart of United – you don’t mess with that.”

The price hikes, coupled with plans to redevelop Old Trafford, have led to protests at recent home games. Ratcliffe has defended the moves, arguing the extra revenue is vital to modernize the stadium and compete financially with Europe’s elite.

However, Giggs warned: “Lose the fans, and you lose what makes United special. He needs to rethink this.”

The duo’s comments highlight growing unrest at a club still grappling with its post-Sir Alex Ferguson identity. With Amorim under pressure to deliver results and Ratcliffe facing scrutiny off the pitch, Manchester United’s road back to the top looks as rocky as ever.