
Manchester United (foto: Getty Images)
Manchester United face €95 million in losses after a dismal season, with financial penalties and revenue drops leaving the club’s future transfer plans in jeopardy.
Manchester United’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham at San Mamés was more than just another painful loss—it was a missed lifeline. Victory could have masked a deeply troubling season and temporarily delayed the looming crisis. Instead, the 1–0 defeat has left the club exposed to the harsh consequences of years of poor management and spiralling financial losses.
According to UK media, United will end the season with a staggering €95 million deficit—a £80 million financial hole that could deeply affect their summer transfer business, squad planning, and long-term strategy. That figure includes lost broadcasting revenue, reduced matchday income, and contractual penalties with sponsors.
Brutal consequences
The absence from European competition next season for the first time since 2014/15 will have a direct and painful impact. Just from Europa League TV rights, United would have earned around €36 million. Now, that money is gone. An estimated €24 million will also be lost in ticketing revenue, and a €12 million penalty will be applied by Adidas as part of their commercial deal, which punishes the club for failing to qualify for the Champions League.
In total, the various missed income streams, contract penalties, and secondary revenues (such as UEFA Super Cup exclusions) pile up to roughly €95 million in losses.
Retkliffe's warning becomes reality
New co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had already warned that this season’s damage could be immeasurable, especially with the club tied to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). To cut costs, United recently laid off 450 employees, but the move only sparked backlash—it did little to soften the financial blow.
Transfer market paralysis
Without a major player sale, United’s purchasing power is limited. Letting go of Bruno Fernandes, one of the few remaining top performers, is considered a destructive option, but interest in underperforming squad members is weak. Until sales materialise, fresh reinforcements are unlikely, and squad stagnation looms.
Worse yet, should United finish as low as 16th in the Premier League, they stand to lose an additional €27 million in domestic prize money compared to last season—further tightening the noose.
Manchester United now find themselves in a vicious cycle: underperformance leads to financial losses, which restrict squad improvements, which in turn lead to further underperformance. And the club’s struggles are far from over.