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Manchester United continues to undergo significant changes under the stewardship of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who recently acquired a 29% stake in the club through INEOS Sports.
Since taking the reins, Ratcliffe has prioritized aggressive cost-cutting measures to address the club’s financial challenges.
United faces mounting losses, with last year’s deficit surpassing £110m and heavy interest payments on its debt burden.
Fans and stakeholders have been vocal about these changes, questioning their impact on both the club’s operations and community initiatives.
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Among the cuts, staff layoffs and reduced funding for various programs have raised concerns about the direction the club is taking under Ratcliffe’s leadership.
One of the most contentious targets of these cost-saving measures has been the Manchester United Foundation, a charitable arm that supports underprivileged communities in Manchester and Salford.
The Foundation runs projects such as Street Reds for teenagers and Primary Reds for younger children, alongside organizing hospital visits for children with life-threatening illnesses.
Previously, United contributed close to £1m annually to the Foundation, including cash support, merchandise, and use of Old Trafford facilities.
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However, Sky News reports that funding from the club is expected to be significantly reduced starting in 2025.
A club insider maintained that “significant support” for the Foundation would continue, but these reductions follow similar cuts to programs for former players and disabled supporters.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) has criticized the proposed cuts, calling them a reflection of misplaced priorities at the club.
Despite Ratcliffe’s $300m investment, further austerity measures are anticipated, leaving fans concerned about the long-term vision for both the club and its community obligations.
United declined to comment formally, but the impending cuts are the latest in a series of moves that signal Ratcliffe’s intent to reshape the financial landscape of the iconic club.
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