SAD NEWS: It is with great sadness that we share today that Avram Glazer has gently said goodbye to this world. Although he is no longer with us, his love, laughter and light will forever remain in the hearts of every Manchester United fan, as the family announced…

Today, the world of football and business bids farewell to a man whose name became inseparable from one of the biggest clubs in global sport. Avram Glazer, the co-chairman of Manchester United and one of the key figures behind the club’s modern commercial empire, has passed away at the age of 64. His family confirmed the news this morning, asking for privacy as they grieve a man they called “a devoted son, brother, leader, and visionary.”

Though rarely the loudest voice in the room, Avram Glazer was undeniably one of the most influential. After the Glazer family’s controversial takeover of Manchester United in 2005, it was Avram who gradually emerged as one of the central architects of the club’s global strategy. Alongside his brother Joel, he oversaw United’s expansion into international markets, its modernization in the digital era, and its continued pursuit of silverware on the pitch.

The path was not always smooth. He was often the subject of fierce fan criticism and protest, particularly in relation to the debt leveraged onto the club and perceived prioritization of commercial growth over sporting tradition. Yet those who worked closely with him describe a man who was deeply committed, tireless in his work, and emotionally invested in the success of the club.

The Glazer family released a joint statement this morning:

“Avram was a man of quiet strength and unshakable loyalty. He carried the weight of our family’s legacy with grace and determination. Though he lived much of his life out of the spotlight, his love for Manchester United and its community was deeply felt. We are devastated by this loss.”

Since his passing was announced, tributes have begun to pour in from around the football world. While fans have always had divided opinions about the Glazer ownership, many have taken a moment today to acknowledge Avram Glazer’s role in keeping Manchester United competitive in the financial and footballing arms race of the modern game.

Sir Alex Ferguson, who worked alongside Glazer for many of his most successful years, offered a brief but heartfelt tribute:

“Avram was a steady presence during a time of immense change at the club. While we did not always agree, I respected his dedication to Manchester United. His passing is a great loss to the football world.”

At Old Trafford, flags have been lowered to half-mast. A banner now hangs at the stadium’s East Stand: “In Memory of Avram Glazer – 1959 to 2024 – A Name Etched in Our Modern Era.” The club is expected to observe a minute of silence at its next home match and will likely organize a formal memorial in the coming days.

Avram Glazer’s influence extended far beyond Manchester. As part of the family’s ownership structure in the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he was also instrumental in American football success, helping the franchise lift the Super Bowl in 2021. Friends and business partners across industries have described him as “measured, thoughtful, and relentlessly curious.”

But it is in Manchester where the loss feels most profound.

He was there during the lifting of league titles. He was there during the highs of Champions League glory. He was there during moments of rebuilding and doubt. And even as criticism raged from the terraces, he remained quietly present, watching, guiding, planning.

History will debate his legacy, but one truth remains: Avram Glazer was part of one of the most pivotal chapters in Manchester United’s long and storied history. Whether you admired his ambition or challenged his decisions, he helped shape the modern identity of the club.

Today, the boardroom is quieter. The director’s box stands a little emptier. And an era quietly comes to an end.

Rest in peace, Avram Glazer. You may have departed this world, but your imprint on Manchester United and global football will endure for generations.