Story perspectives

Manchester United's Friendlies Plan Sparks Fan Frustration

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Manchester United finished 15th in the Premier League, missing European competition for the first time since 2013-14 and losing the Europa League final.
The club is considering midweek friendlies against teams like AC Milan and Lazio to generate an estimated £100 million in revenue.
They have 11 free midweeks before Christmas, planning matches in the Middle East and Asia.
Manager Ruben Amorim intends to use this time for team bonding and training.
Fans are frustrated with the focus on friendlies rather than improving league performance.

History

Historical Context

Manchester United's decline began in 2014 when they finished seventh in the Premier League, prompting a major overhaul under manager Louis van Gaal. By 2023, the club's focus shifted towards revenue generation, exemplified by midweek friendlies against teams like AC Milan, reflecting ongoing tensions between financial strategies and competitive success in elite football. The club generated £100 million in commercial revenue in 2014.

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Story summary

Manchester United finished 15th in the Premier League, missing European competition for the first time since 2013-14 and losing the Europa League final.
The club is considering midweek friendlies against teams like AC Milan and Lazio to generate an estimated £100 million in revenue.
They have 11 free midweeks before Christmas, planning matches in the Middle East and Asia.
Manager Ruben Amorim intends to use this time for team bonding and training.
Fans are frustrated with the focus on friendlies rather than improving league performance.

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