Manchester United announced on Monday that it expects to cut an additional 150-200 jobs as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures, following five consecutive years of financial losses.
The latest round of redundancies follows an initial wave last year when approximately 250 jobs were eliminated after British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 25% stake in the club for $1.3 billion and took control of its soccer operations.
Now, under what United describes as a “transformation plan,” the club is set to streamline operations further, pending a consultation process with employees.
“Hard Choices” to Secure Club’s Future
Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada emphasized that these cuts are essential for the club’s long-term stability and competitive ambitions.
“We have a responsibility to put Manchester United in the strongest position to win across our men’s, women’s, and academy teams,” Berrada stated. “We are initiating a wide-ranging series of measures to transform and renew the club.”
Berrada acknowledged the difficult nature of the decision. “Unfortunately, this means announcing further potential redundancies, and we deeply regret the impact on those affected colleagues. However, these hard choices are necessary to put the club back on a stable financial footing.”
Financial Overhaul and Ticket Price Hikes
United is determined to return to profitability after accumulating financial losses since 2019. Berrada made it clear that sustained deficits are not an option.
“This cannot continue,” he asserted. “Our two main priorities as a club are delivering success on the pitch for our fans and improving our facilities. We cannot invest in these objectives if we are continuously losing money.”
The club also raised its lowest-priced tickets mid-season from £40 ($49) to £66 ($81) in an effort to boost revenue.
“At the end of this process, we will have a more lean, agile, and financially sustainable football club while continuing to provide a world-class service to our valuable commercial partners,” Berrada said. “We will then be in a much stronger position to invest in football success and improved facilities for fans, while remaining compliant with UEFA and Premier League regulations.”
On-Field Struggles Continue
Amid financial restructuring, Manchester United is enduring one of its toughest seasons in recent history. The 20-time English champions currently sit in 15th place in the Premier League, having won just eight of their first 26 matches and suffering 12 defeats.
The team’s on-field challenges add further pressure on the club’s leadership as they navigate financial difficulties while seeking to restore United’s status among Europe’s elite football clubs.
Key Points:
Job Cuts at Manchester United: The club plans to cut an additional 150-200 jobs as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures.
Financial Losses Drive Redundancies: United has suffered five consecutive years of losses, prompting the need for financial restructuring.
Previous Job Reductions: Around 250 jobs were already cut last year after British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 25% stake in the club.
CEO’s Justification: Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada stated that the changes are necessary to stabilize the club financially and maintain competitiveness.
Ticket Price Increase: United raised its lowest-priced ticket mid-season from £40 ($49) to £66 ($81) to boost revenue.
Long-Term Goal: The club aims to become more financially sustainable while continuing to invest in football success and improved facilities.
On-Field Struggles: United is enduring one of its worst seasons, currently sitting in 15th place in the Premier League with 12 losses in 26 matches.
