New Delhi: Manchester United’s financial struggles are showing no signs of easing, with reports suggesting that the club will make another 200 staff redundant. According to The Guardian, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who acquired a 25 per cent stake in the club earlier this year, is overseeing these cost-cutting measures as United attempt to manage their financial losses. The club has reported losses of £300 million over the past three years, forcing major decisions behind the scenes.
This is not the first round of layoffs under the new structure. Last summer, United had already let go of 250 employees as part of their effort to cut costs. These changes come alongside other controversial financial moves, including a rise in ticket prices to £66—a decision that has not gone down well with the fanbase. Reports also emerged last year that United had requested Manchester City to provide transportation for their players to attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony, only for City to decline.
The latest redundancies raise questions about how much financial flexibility United will have in the summer transfer window. The club’s January business was already limited, with only two players arriving. Patrick Dorgu joined from Lecce for £25 million, while teenage defender Ayden Heaven was signed from Arsenal for an undisclosed fee.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting continues amid financial pressure
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Minority Shareholder of Manchester United, looks on from the stands along with Avram Glazer, Owner of Manchester United, prior to the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on May 25, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Beyond transfers, United’s financial struggles have been evident in other areas. The club’s decision to part ways with Erik ten Hag and bring in Ruben Amorim came at a heavy cost. United had to pay £10.4 million in compensation to Ten Hag and his coaching staff, which included Ruud van Nistelrooy. On top of that, an additional £11 million was needed to secure Amorim and his team from Sporting CP.
The wage bill has also been under scrutiny, with United offloading Marcus Rashford to Aston Villa on loan. Despite his temporary departure, the club is still covering 75 per cent of his £365,000 weekly wages, showing the financial challenges they face.
On the pitch, things are just as tough. United are struggling in the Premier League, currently sitting in 13th place with 29 points from 24 matches. Their European campaign has been slightly better, with the team progressing to the round of 16 in the Europa League after finishing third in the newly revamped league stage.
United’s next challenge comes in the Premier League, where they will face Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, 16 February. With ongoing financial troubles and a squad lacking depth, the club’s future remains uncertain.
Manchester United will make 200 more staff redundant as part of cost-cutting measures under Sir Jim Ratcliffe, raising concerns over the club’s finances and summer transfer budget amid ongoing struggles. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
