‘Proudly colonised by immigrants’: Manchester United fans turn tables on Ratcliffe with banner

Manchester United supporters delivered a pointed response to minority owner Jim Ratcliffe’s immigration comments, unfurling a banner that celebrated the club’s foreign players during Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.

The Stretford End displayed a banner reading “MUFC proudly colonised by immigrants”—a riposte to Ratcliffe’s remark last month that Britain had been “colonised by immigrants”.

The billionaire has since apologised, saying he was sorry he had caused offence with his comments that also drew a rebuke from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Manchester United fans showcased images of foreign players past and present, including Eric Cantona, Patrice Evra, Park Ji-sung, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, current captain Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Amad Diallo.

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The banner proved apt as Fernandes helped inspire United’s comeback win at Old Trafford, converting a penalty before the Portuguese midfielder provided an assist for Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko’s winning header.

The victory lifted Manchester United to third in the Premier League table, with its foreign players once again proving their worth on the pitch while fans made their feelings clear in the stands.

Published on Mar 01, 2026