Manchester United’s financial woes continued in the 2023/24 season, with the club posting net losses of £113.2 million ($148 million) despite record revenues. This marks the fifth consecutive year of losses for the Premier League giants.
The club’s revenues reached a record £661.8 million, a 2.1% increase from the previous year. This growth was primarily driven by record commercial and matchday revenues. However, United incurred exceptional costs of £47.8 million, largely related to Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a minority stake in the club.
On the pitch, United endured a disappointing season, finishing eighth in the Premier League and exiting the Champions League at the group stage. However, Erik ten Hag’s team managed to salvage some pride by winning the FA Cup, defeating Manchester City in the final.
In response to the club’s financial and on-field struggles, United have embarked on a major backroom shake-up. Omar Berrada, poached from Manchester City, has been appointed as the new chief executive.
“We are all extremely focused on working collectively to create a bright future with football success at the heart of it,” said Berrada. “We are working towards greater financial sustainability and making changes to our operations to make them more efficient.”
United’s financial situation is further complicated by the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules, which allow a maximum loss of £105 million over a three-season period. However, certain losses, such as infrastructure, youth team, and women’s team spending, are deemed “allowable.”
Everton and Nottingham Forest were both penalized with points deductions last season for breaching these rules. United, who have started the new Premier League season with two defeats in three matches, will need to improve their on-field performance and financial management to avoid similar sanctions.