Manchester United recently announced a significant reduction in financial losses, reporting a drop from £113.2 million to £33 million for the fiscal year ending in June 2025. This turnaround comes on the heels of two rounds of redundancies that resulted in more than 400 job losses, affecting primarily long-term staff within the organization.
Job Cuts and Financial Strategy
The decision to cut jobs, particularly within the scouting department, has drawn criticism towards Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Critics have also pointed out the elimination of long-standing employee benefits, such as complimentary lunches, as Ratcliffe seeks to manage operational costs.
In defense of these changes, Ratcliffe stated, “The costs were just too high. There are some fantastic people at Manchester United, but there was also a level of mediocrity, and it had become bloated.” He acknowledged the backlash regarding the cancellation of free lunches, remarking, “No one’s ever given me a free lunch.”
Connecting Profitability and Performance
Ratcliffe emphasized the link between business success and on-field performance. He mentioned, “The biggest correlation, like it or not, between results and any external factor is profitability. The more cash you have got, the better squad you can build.”
- Highest revenue reported last year
- Second highest profitability recorded
- Plans for long-term financial growth
Future Aspirations
Ratcliffe expressed confidence in Manchester United’s future, believing the club can become the most profitable football organization globally. He stated, “Those numbers will get better. From that, I hope, a long-term, sustainable, high level of football will emerge.”
As the club navigates through these changes, the focus remains on balancing financial stability with the ambition to excel in competitive football.
Expectations for Amorim
According to Ratcliffe, it may take three years to fully transform Manchester United under the leadership of coach Ruben Amorim. This highlights the club’s commitment to long-term development rather than immediate results, reinforcing the vision for sustained growth and success.
