Manchester United players, ahead of facing Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final on May 21, are furious at co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for making a ‘money-driven’ decision in the lead-up to their showpiece encounter in the Basque Country.
Although Ruben Amorim’s side have struggled to perform in England’s topflight since he replaced Erik ten Hag, their European exploits have not gone unnoticed. In fact, they are the only team unbeaten across the continent’s three competitions.
Much of the build-up to their final has been dominated by decisions made by the powers that be at Old Trafford and the under-fire Ratcliffe, in particular. The 72-year-old billionaire has continued to be frugal with the freebies on offer.
Man Utd Players ‘Furious’ at Ratcliffe’s Decision
It refers to the co-owner's allocation of their 15,000 tickets
In a chance to salvage an otherwise hodgepodge campaign, the Red Devils – who are 13-time champions of the Premier League – will look to overturn Spurs at the San Mames Stadium on May 21. However, Ratcliffe failed to provide staff members with tickets.
Instead, Amorim – widely regarded as one of the best young managers in world football – has been praised for his ‘classy gesture’ by kindly offering to pay (out of his own pocket) for 30 of his backroom staff to take their families to Bilbao.
As reported by The Mirror, he said: "You know that we have a lot of things - people leaving, a lot of changing in the staff. In this moment for our club sometimes it is hard to understand when to give and when to take. It is complicated for the club to start giving to other members of staff - it is a really hard position."
"My reaction was to help. Then we talk to the players and the players had the same reaction - everybody wants the staff there and their families there."
Both finalists have been given, by UEFA, an allocation of 15,000 tickets each. Spurs, who are looking to win a trophy for the first time since 2008, are offering free tickets to every full-time employee. United’s staff ballot, as mentioned, is much smaller.
Ruben Amorim Related
Man Utd 'Could Be Banned' From Champions League, Even if They Win Europa League
Manchester United will take on Tottenham in the Europa League final next Wednesday, aiming to salvage some pride from an otherwise appalling season.
Elsewhere, Ratcliffe and his entourage are giving players just two complimentary tickets for friends and family alongside seats on a charter flight to Spain, which lands 60 miles away from Athletic Club’s stomping ground on the morning of the final.
Alongside travel, the players’ two guests will have day access to food and drink – but they will not have the chance to celebrate with the Red Devils should they reign victorious next Wednesday. That’s because their return flight from Santander leaves in the early hours on Thursday morning – specifically, at 2:15am.
Man Utd vs Tottenham - Last Five Meetings
Date
16/02/25
19/12/24
29/09/24
14/01/24
19/08/23
According to the Daily Mail, the players of Manchester United are not very pleased that they are only being offered two tickets for their Europa League final against Ange Postecoglou’s side, who are currently languishing 17th in the Premier League.
Of course, Amorim’s Red Devils squad can secure up to 10 additional, face-value tickets through UEFA – but prices can range from £55 to £200 and that’s before taking the additional costs of flights and hotel rooms into account.