Manchester United FC have issued a statement in light of club co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s controversial claim that Britain is being “colonised by immigrants”.
The billionaire made the comment in an interview with Sky News, and has since been met with major backlash from politicians, with Sir Keir Starmer calling on him to apologise.
Manchester United have issued a statement on the issues, claiming it “prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club.”
The statement read: “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.
“Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do”.
The club pledged to remain “deeply committed” to the principles and spirit of that diversity and equality campaign, reflected in policies and culture.
Over the course of this season, the club has participated in initiatives at both men’s and women’s games marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-racism, and more.
“Manchester United reflects the unity and resilience of all the communities we are so privileged to represent,” the statement concluded.
“We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.”
Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer condemned Sir Jim’s comments, asking the billionaire to issue an apology for the use of the work “colonised”, emphasising the benefits of a diverse Britain.
In response, Sir Jim said: “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe”.
“It is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth”.
