Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer dies aged 85

Manchester United owner Malcolm Glazer has had at the age of 85.

Glazer, a self-made millionaire, bought United for £790million in 2005 with fans upset at the amount of debt incurred by the club. However, under his ownership, United have won five Premier League titles as well as the Champions League in 2008.

“The thoughts of everyone at Manchester United are with the Glazer family tonight following the news that Malcolm Glazer has passed away. He was 85,” a statement from United read.

“The news was announced earlier on the official website of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NFL franchise he acquired ownership of in 1995.

“Malcolm leaves behind his wife Linda, six children and 14 grandchildren. Staff at Manchester United extend deep and sincere condolences to them all at this difficult time.”

Glazer’s sons Joel and Avram took over the day-to-day running of the club after their father suffered a stroke in April 2006 and his death is not expected to have any significant effect on the ownership of the Red Devils.

Confirming the news, the NFL team Tampa Bay Buccaneers, released a statement, which read: “We are saddened to announce the passing of Owner/President Malcolm Glazer earlier this morning.

“A dynamic business leader, Glazer helped mould the Buccaneers into a model franchise and one respected league-wide. Since being purchased by Glazer in 1995, the Buccaneers franchise has earned seven playoff berths, five playoff wins, and captured its first Super Bowl championship in 2002.

“Known among his league peers as a pioneering thinker, Glazer infused his team and employees with the determination and dedication to be the best in the NFL. Glazer’s commitment to building a championship organization has provided the foundation for continued success, on and off the field.

“Glazer’s input was instrumental on the league level as well, as evidenced by his time serving on the NFL’s Finance Committee. He also played a major role in Tampa becoming a host for the Super Bowl on several occasions.”