Manchester United Reports Net Loss Amid European Competition Absence

Red Devils face financial struggles as revenue drops

Manchester United reports a net loss of £6.6 million for Q1 2025, citing lower broadcasting revenue and ticket sales due to European competition absence.

“The difficult decisions we have made in the past ‌year have resulted in a sustainably lower cost base and a more streamlined...”

Manchester United is feeling the financial pinch after missing out on European competitions this season. The club has reported a net loss of £6.6 million ($8.83 million) for the quarter ended September 30, compared to a profit of £1.4 million last year.

The main culprits behind this loss are lower broadcasting revenue and ticket sales, with total revenue dropping 2%. However, the club has taken steps to cut costs, reducing player and staff wages by 8.2% through job cuts.

CEO Omar Berrada remains optimistic, stating that these difficult decisions will lead to a more streamlined and effective organization, equipped to drive improved sporting and commercial performance in the long term.

Despite the challenges, Manchester United is maintaining its fiscal 2026 revenue forecast of £640 million to £660 million, with core profit expected to be between £180 million and £200 million.

“The difficult decisions we have made in the past ‌year have resulted in a sustainably lower cost base and a more streamlined, effective organisation equipped to drive the club towards improved ‍sporting and commercial performance over the long-term,” CEO Omar Berrada said in a statement.

Manchester United is facing significant financial challenges, with six consecutive years of losses prompting the club to implement job cuts and cost-saving measures. The 20-time English champions have struggled both on and off the pitch, highlighting the need for restructuring.

Man United are without European football this season but reported a £13 million operating profit 📈 pic.twitter.com/tJoN6HoW7p

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) December 11, 2025

Despite these challenges, Manchester United remains optimistic about its financial future, retaining its fiscal 2026 revenue forecast of 640-660 million pounds and core profit of 180-200 million pounds. CEO Omar Berrada attributes this resilience to the club's efforts to streamline operations and reduce costs, setting the stage for improved sporting and commercial performance.

Minority owner Jim Ratcliffe has increased ticket prices, despite the club's hefty summer spending spree of £230 million and plans for a new £2 billion, 100,000-seat stadium. This move has sparked criticism from supporters, who are already unhappy with the team's domestic performance.

The club's absence from European competitions is exacerbating financial pressure, with broadcasting revenue taking a hit. Ratcliffe, who oversees football operations, is under scrutiny as Manchester United struggles to get back on track.