Erik ten Hag says he is not involved in takeover talks surrounding Manchester United, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to purchase a stake in the club.
Ratcliffe is negotiating a deal that will see the British billionaire buy a 25% stake in the Red Devils, with the agreement set to see the chairman and chief executive officer of the INEOS chemicals group take control of the sporting side of the club.
Ratcliffe had been frustrated in attempts for a majority takeover and had seen a series of bids rejected by the Glazer family. Sheikh Jassim bin Hamal Al Thani of Qatar withdrew his interest in buying Manchester United after similar frustration in a 100% takeover attempt.
Speaking ahead of this weekend’s game with Sheffield United, Ten Hag said takeover talks have been left to the club’s board.
“I am not involved in this; others are involved, I’m focused on my team and the coming block of games,” the Dutchman said at his pre-game press conference.
United will be looking to bounce back from a difficult start to the season against the Blades, who are without a win since promotion.
The Red Devils scored twice in stoppage time to rescue a result against Brentford before the break and Ten Hag is hopeful that win can kickstart his side’s season.
“You can’t restart, but there is a strong dressing room. They are aligned, determined and willing to win games. That is what we have seen. In the end, we beat them and physically we were very strong, mentally, we kept going and were very strong.”
