Arsenal fan Jeremy Corbyn responds to Manchester United owner Jim Ratcliffe’s recent comments

Jeremy Corbyn references Arsenal and Manchester United rivalry

Jim Ratcliffe, the founder of INEOS and part-owner of Manchester United, recently made comments about immigration that prompted political reaction.

Jeremy Corbyn responded by referencing his support for Arsenal and the historic rivalry between the two clubs. He linked that rivalry to what he described as Manchester United’s global character.

“As an Arsenal fan, I have always enjoyed our historic rivalry with Manchester United. Above all, I admire its identity as a diverse club with players & fans from all over the world.”

“Jim Ratcliffe’s comments are a disgrace. Migrants aren’t the problem. Tax-dodging billionaires are.”

Football identity and political reaction

Manchester United has long been recognised as a club with international players and a global fanbase. Corbyn’s response centred on that identity rather than detailing the substance of Ratcliffe’s remarks.

By referencing both rivalry and diversity, Corbyn positioned his criticism within a football context while engaging in a wider political debate.

His comments circulated widely online and formed part of the broader reaction to Ratcliffe’s interview.

The exchange illustrates how figures connected to English football can become part of national political conversations.

In this case, Corbyn used his platform as both an MP and an Arsenal supporter to set out his position clearly.