Sir Jim Ratcliffe
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Manchester United’s summer preparations are set to be anything but conventional, with the club making further changes behind the scenes as part of INEOS’ ongoing restructure.
Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s arrival, the Red Devils have implemented a series of cost-saving measures.
A process consisting of several measures, which have been aimed at stabilising a club that’s posted over £300m in financial losses across the past three years.
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From staff redundancies and budget cuts to axing Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role, no department has been spared.
The INEOS group look to rebuild with a long-term vision in mind.
Now, United’s pre-season friendlies will also be impacted.
The Red Devils are set to abandon traditional gift-giving, according to Ben Jacob’s report for TalkSport.
Opposition clubs have been left surprised by the decision, with some already having prepared gifts to present to United during their upcoming matches.
Traditionally, clubs exchange pennants and symbolic items before kick-off.
Shirts, merchandise, and even customised silverware are often included.
But United have decided such gestures are outdated.
Especially when facing familiar English rivals like Leeds United, whom they’ll meet in Stockholm on July 19.
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Their Summer Series fixtures against West Ham, Bournemouth and Everton are also expected to go ahead without gift exchanges.
Although the club haven’t confirmed if they’ll resume the tradition for Fiorentina’s visit to Old Trafford in August.
Instead, United will host drinks receptions for rival executives.
It will be starting with one for Leeds – in a bid to shift focus toward hospitality rather than ceremonial customs.
While club sources insist the move isn’t budget-driven as per TalkSport’s report, it comes amid INEOS-led cuts that include reduced funding for the Manchester United Foundation.
As well as also making reductions for legends like Bryan Robson and Andy Cole.
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