INEOS are facing mounting criticism over their handling of Manchester United, with supporters increasingly frustrated by the club’s recruitment and managerial decisions.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed his initial 27.7 per cent investment in United in February 2024, assuming control of football operations and promising to restore the club’s former success.

However, the subsequent period has been characterised by disappointing performances, expensive recruitment decisions and repeated managerial upheaval.

Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim have both departed during the INEOS era, while Michael Carrick could become the latest managerial casualty.

United suffered a humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como on Wednesday, extending their winless run to seven matches.

Despite the result, Carrick is expected to remain in charge against Bournemouth on Sunday, although his longer-term future remains uncertain.

Recruitment has attracted equally fierce criticism.

United signed Andrey Santos, Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and goalkeeper Mark Darlow during the summer, but failed to secure the defensive reinforcements many supporters considered essential.

The absence of another specialist left-back has become particularly problematic, with injuries exposing the squad’s lack of depth.

Nevertheless, away from Old Trafford, another INEOS sporting operation is preparing a remarkable investment in its future.

INEOS agree record-breaking deal

According to Spanish newspaper AS, INEOS’ professional cycling team have reached an agreement to sign Spanish sensation Benjamin Noval on a five-year contract running until 2031.

The 18-year-old, who won two junior world championship gold medals in September, is expected to turn professional with the British team in 2027.

Meanwhile, MARCA reports that the proposed agreement is being described as the biggest contract ever offered to a cyclist of his age.

However, the deal has not yet been formally signed, with completion expected shortly.

Noval recently visited the team in Denmark, undergoing medical examinations and meeting his future colleagues.

He is expected to attend his first official training camp in December, with INEOS prioritising his long-term development.