INEOS have unveiled a major development involving a €5 billion investment, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s leadership continuing to face fierce scrutiny at Manchester United.

Ratcliffe became United’s co-owner in February 2024, securing a minority stake and control over football operations while the Glazer family retained majority ownership.

His arrival promised a new era of smarter recruitment, improved infrastructure and a return to challenging for major trophies.

However, the club’s latest crisis has exposed serious questions about INEOS’ decision-making.

United invested heavily in midfield during the summer transfer window but failed to strengthen their defence adequately, despite obvious concerns over depth and fitness.

Those concerns have become impossible to ignore.

Michael Carrick’s side have failed to keep a Premier League clean sheet this season, winning just two of their opening ten competitive matches.

Leny Yoro’s suspension has compounded the problems, while Matthijs de Ligt has only recently returned to the squad following a lengthy absence dating back to December.

Noussair Mazraoui has also struggled with injuries, further limiting Carrick’s options.

United’s defensive contingent ahead of their trip to Como includes Harry Maguire, De Ligt, Harry Amass, Dan Armer, Diogo Dalot, Jaydan Kamason and Mazraoui.

Maguire is now 33, while Amass, 19, has made just five senior United appearances. Armer, 18, and Kamason, 19, are yet to make their competitive first-team debuts.

The situation raises uncomfortable questions about why INEOS failed to prioritise defensive reinforcements.

Supporter frustration has also intensified, with protests targeting both Ratcliffe and the Glazers over ownership, ticketing decisions and the club’s direction.

Now, INEOS have announced another significant development involving their investment strategy.

INEOS confirm €5 billion investment development

INEOS have officially launched LowINCO₂™, a new range of lower-carbon chemicals and polymers, while confirming plans linked to their €5 billion Project ONE investment.

According to an official INEOS announcement dated October 19, the products offer carbon footprints up to half the European industry average.

The company says emissions will fall further when Project ONE, its major ethane cracker development in Antwerp, Belgium, becomes operational.

The initiative is designed to help businesses reduce emissions associated with manufacturing, packaging, construction and other industries.

Liz Rittweger, CEO of INEOS Olefins & Polymers Europe, said the range would help customers meet demanding environmental requirements while developing more sustainable products.

Although the announcement concerns INEOS’ chemicals business rather than Manchester United, it highlights the scale of Ratcliffe’s wider industrial operations while his football investment remains under scrutiny.