Manchester United’s financial struggles are no secret. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has admitted that the club was on the brink of disaster.
The British billionaire recently spoke to Gary Neville on The Overlap. He revealed that budget cuts were necessary to prevent Manchester United from going bust. This statement raises major concerns about their current wage bill.
Ratcliffe has purchased a 28.94% stake in Manchester United and taken over control of the sporting operation. His arrival was welcomed by fans a year ago, but he has come under fire for inconsistent strategy and cutting the staff by 450.
“In super-simple terms, the club has been spending more money than it has been earning for the last seven years, including this year. If you do that for a prolonged time it ends up in a very difficult place, and, for Manchester United, that place ended at the end of this year. At the end of 2025, Manchester United would have run out of cash. There would be no cash at the end of this year. That is the first time we have ever said that in public, but that is the fact of the matter,” Ratcliffe said.
High Wages, Low Returns
Manchester United have several high earners contributing little on the pitch. Casemiro, who reportedly earns £350,000 per week, has been reduced to a bit-part role. His performances have declined, making his salary a major financial burden.
Marcus Rashford’s situation adds to the problem. He has spent the second half of the season on loan at Aston Villa. However, he is set to return to Old Trafford with three years left on his £325,000-a-week contract. New manager Ruben Amorim reportedly has no plans for him, meaning United could be stuck paying a huge salary for a player they do not want.
Injury-Prone Players on Big Contracts
Luke Shaw is one of the highest earners at the club. He has struggled with injuries, playing only three games all season. His wages do not match his availability, and his long-term fitness remains a concern.
Mason Mount is another issue. He signed for Manchester United last summer but has spent most of the season injured. Reports suggest he earns £250,000 per week, making his contract another financial headache.
Finding Buyers Could Be Difficult
If Manchester United want to cut their wage bill, they must sell players. However, shifting high earners is easier said than done. Few clubs will be willing to match the wages of Casemiro, Rashford, or Shaw.
United may have to subsidise wages to facilitate moves. This would still cost the club money, but it might be better than keeping expensive, underperforming players on the books.
The Urgency of Smart Decisions
If Ratcliffe’s assessment of Manchester United’s financial situation is accurate, the club must act fast. They need to decide who stays and who leaves. Rashford, Casemiro, Shaw, and Mount all have contracts that could become major problems.
Selling them will not be easy. If no buyers emerge, United may have to make tough calls, including loaning players out or terminating contracts. The club’s financial health depends on getting these decisions right.
Conclusion
Manchester United are at a crossroads. Their wage bill is unsustainable, and key players are not delivering value. If they do not address this issue, their financial problems could grow even worse.
For fans and those interested in online sports betting, United’s financial struggles add another layer of uncertainty. The upcoming transfer window will be crucial in shaping the club’s future.
