Image Credits: SKY SPORTS
Gary Neville has stepped up to organise a fundraiser for former Manchester United players.
This comes after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures stripped away financial support for a key club charity.
The Association of Former Manchester United Players (AFMUP), formed in 1985 to support ex-players and carry out charitable work, had previously received an annual £40,000 donation from the club.
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That support was withdrawn by the INEOS-led ownership as part of a sweeping overhaul of United’s finances.
Over 400 job redundancies have been announced.
As well as season ticket prices, which have been raised by 5%.
As well as the club ending its agreement with Sir Alex Ferguson for ambassadorial duties.
The decision to pull funding from AFMUP particularly struck a nerve with Neville.
The former full-back interviewed Ratcliffe last month as part of a sit-down exploring the future of the club.
When asked about the charity cut, Ratcliffe appeared caught off guard and struggled to justify the move.
Ratcliffe admitted: “Well, nobody suggested that,” in response to alternative fundraising ideas.
Neville didn’t wait for a second invitation.
Gary Neville steps in to help former Manchester United players
He has since organised an event to raise funds for AFMUP.
He has chosen to to honour former United striker Andy Cole as the central figure of the night.
The dinner event takes place on April 24.
Tickets will cost £125, with a Q&A session hosted by Neville himself.
Sir Alex Ferguson is among the high-profile guests expected to attend, giving the evening additional star power and significance.
The event will include raffles, auctions, and other interactive elements to boost donations and awareness for the cause.
Neville had floated this very concept to Ratcliffe during their interview.
The Englishman suggested that current players like Harry Maguire or Bruno Fernandes could also support similar fundraising evenings in future.
Ratcliffe had previously indicated that difficult financial decisions would be necessary to restore the club’s stability.
However the removal of charitable contributions has drawn criticism from supporters and figures associated with the club’s rich history.
Jim Elms, a trustee of AFMUP, praised Neville’s swift action.
Speaking to The Sun, he said: “Gary telephoned me and said he’d organise a Q&A session and we are all delighted.”
Neville’s decision to act goes to show the level of disconnect between INEOS’ business-focused approach and the club’s traditions.
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Source: Centred Devils
