INEOS plan to sell Nice to eliminate conflict with Manchester United

Manchester United co-owners INEOS are reportedly preparing to sell Ligue 1 side Nice to focus on the recently acquired Red Devils. 

In December 2023, the Sir Jim Ratcliffe-led company reached an agreement to acquire a 25% ownership stake in Manchester United from the Glazers family, becoming part owners and assuming control over the sporting arm club. 

However, prior to their acquisition of a significant portion of shares in Manchester United, they owned French side Nice, which they bought in 2019 for a reported €100 million from Chinese-American entrepreneur Chien Lee.

Manchester United risked not participating in the Europa League, as another INEOS-owned club, Nice, qualified for the competition. 

However, it is reported that UEFA have given them a bye for a transitional one-year period, meaning both sides can compete in Europe's second-tier competition next season, despite having an owner in common. 

According to a report from The Independent, INEOS is looking to avoid a similar headache in the future and is now looking to part ways with their majority shares in Nice. 

Other than Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s reported interest in focusing on his boyhood club as a reason for the proposed sale, the financial landscape of French football is also a contributing factor, with the league yet to seal a broadcaster for next season.  

Per the report, INEOS will have no problem selling Nice as it is positioned in an attractive location. 

Meanwhile, INEOS is considering sacking Erik Ten Hag and has lined up the likes of Gareth Southgate as a possible replacement.