We made a bet, I If he lose the Euro Finals, he will be replace by a Spanish right back. I showed him the players picture. I just wanted to challenge him but I am dead serious about it”-Man Utd fans left stunned by message Sir Jim Ratcliffe sent to Luke Shaw ahead of Euro 2024 final as he reveals what he discussed with Luke Shaw on his replacement.
Manchester United supporters found themselves taken aback by the unexpected message that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a prominent figure associated with the club, directed at Luke Shaw in the lead-up to the Euro 2024 final. This surprising communication came at a time when anticipation was at its peak, with England’s men’s team poised to compete for their first major title since their historic World Cup win in 1966.On that fateful Sunday, the stage was set for a momentous clash as England prepared to face Spain in the Euro 2024 final. The tournament, held in Germany, had seen Gareth Southgate’s squad experience a series of highs and lows. Despite moments of underperformance throughout the competition, England’s semi-final performance against the Netherlands was particularly commendable. They managed to secure a narrow 2-1 victory, showcasing resilience and tactical prowess that reinvigorated the hopes of fans and pundits alike.
As the final approached, Southgate faced the critical decision of whether to alter his starting eleven. A key point of discussion was the potential inclusion of Luke Shaw as the left wing-back, a position currently held by Kieran Trippier. Shaw, who had been named in the 26-man squad despite being sidelined by injury since February, had missed England’s first four matches of the tournament. Nevertheless, he made impactful appearances off the bench in both the quarter-final and semi-final, replacing Trippier and demonstrating his readiness to contribute to the team’s success.
Conversely, Kieran Trippier, the Newcastle United full-back, had also been contending with an injury but seemed poised to retain his starting position against Spain. In the days leading up to the final in Berlin, the excitement and support for the England team were palpable. BBC Sport created a montage of various celebrities sending their best wishes to Gareth Southgate and his squad. Among these well-wishers was Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the chairman of INEOS, the company that holds a minority ownership stake in Manchester United.
In the video, the 71-year-old Ratcliffe delivered a heartfelt message to the team: “All the very best of luck on Sunday, and I sincerely hope that you are successful.” His words aimed to inspire and motivate the players as they prepared for one of the most significant matches in their careers. However, it was Ratcliffe’s additional comment directed specifically at Luke Shaw that caught everyone by surprise. As the montage concluded, he added a personal note, “Luke, please don’t pull your hamstring again.” This unexpected remark elicited a strong reaction from fans. On social media platform X, one fan encapsulated the general sentiment by commenting, “This is an all-timer from Sir Jim. Unreal stuff. Can’t lie… every United fan was thinking it.” Another supporter expressed frustration, writing, “Jim Ratcliffe really is embarrassing, isn’t he? One job, mate.” A third fan’s reaction hinted at a shift in allegiance, stating, “This nearly makes me want a Spain win.”
The blend of humor, concern, and controversy surrounding Ratcliffe’s message added an unexpected layer to the pre-match build-up. As fans and players alike braced for the final, Ratcliffe’s words served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where even off-field remarks can spark intense debate and emotion.The unexpected message from Sir Jim Ratcliffe to Luke Shaw before the Euro 2024 final added a surprising twist to the pre-match excitement. England, led by Gareth Southgate, was preparing for their historic clash against Spain in Berlin, aiming to win their first major title since 1966. Despite a rocky tournament, England’s semi-final victory over the Netherlands had reignited hopes.
Southgate faced a tough decision regarding the starting eleven, particularly the choice between Luke Shaw and Kieran Trippier for the left wing-back position. Shaw, returning from an injury, had made significant contributions off the bench, whereas Trippier was also battling fitness issues but remained a likely starter.
In the days leading up to the final, a video montage featuring celebrities wishing the England team luck was released, including a message from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the chairman of INEOS. While Ratcliffe’s general well-wishes were well-received, his personal comment to Shaw, “Luke, please don’t pull your hamstring again,” drew a strong reaction from fans. The mix of humor and concern in Ratcliffe’s remark sparked debates on social media, highlighting the unpredictable and emotional nature of football fandom.
Ratcliffe’s comment added an unexpected layer of intrigue and controversy, showing how off-field remarks can influence the atmosphere surrounding a major football event. As England prepared for the final, this moment underscored the blend of hope, tension, and passion that defines the sport.