One of the first things Jim Ratcliffe did on the expense side when he took over the sporting part of Manchester United was to get rid of a few hundred employees and close the canteen for free food to those who were allowed to keep their jobs. At the same time, the plan for the giant stadium “Wembley in the north” is presented. Here, billions are spent with the left hand, while cuts are dramatically made with the right. Now it is reported that Ratcliffe and the gang have found a new source of income. This time, the focus will be on basketball. Yes, you read that right.
In September, United announced that they earned a record financial income of £665.5 million last year, despite miserable performance. United finished the season in 15th place, marking their worst ever Premier League season, losing the Europa League final to league rivals Tottenham, meaning they would not compete in European competitions in the 2025/26 season.
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However, United last year started their five-year sponsorship deal with Snapdragon which gives the club a record commercial revenue of £333.3 million.
Commenting on the financial records, CEO Omar Berrada said: “To have generated record revenues during such a challenging year for the club demonstrates the resilience that is a hallmark of Manchester United. As we enter the 2025-26 season, we are working hard to improve the club in all areas.”
However, United are not ready to rest on their financial laurels, Sir Jim is exploring other revenue streams. According to Gianni Petrucci, the president of the Italian Basketball Federation, Basketball is among the things the club should invest in.
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Petrucci claims that United have agreed to participate in NBA Europe as the National Basketball Association (NBA) wants to capitalize on the growing popularity of the sport outside of America. The initiative will see a number of European cities, including Manchester, host at least 10 established teams. The Italian says to Corriere dello Sport:
“It’s a new league that will be good for the system, bringing resources and entertainment. The agreement also notes that registered clubs must participate in their respective domestic leagues.”
“In a $50 billion market, European basketball has a commercial value of just $200 million. An NBA league is precisely the opportunity to increase competitiveness and expand. If Manchester United, the most popular football team in the world, has already said yes, there must be a reason.”
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We just say: “Huh?! What on earth does Manchester United have to do with basketball?!
We bring some football gems with Nani to remind ourselves of what Manchester United is really all about:
