Sheikh Jassim's original plan was to buy Manchester United outright, without taking on a minority stake in the club. Unfortunately, Sir Jim Ratcliffe won the bidding process by agreeing to work with the Glazer family as owners. The Glazers would retain majority control, while Ratcliffe would take a minority stake.

Sheikh Jassim had envisioned buying the club for £5 billion and paying off its debts immediately. He also planned to increase the club's staff and transfer budget, which would be a significant departure from the current management approach.