Reports indicate that Manchester United has given all non-playing staff a deadline of one week to determine if they wish to resign, as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe initiates cost-cutting measures.
Ratcliffe, now in control of 27.7% of the club following a £1.3 billion minority takeover, aims to reduce expenses to comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
An email circulated among staff, excluding coaches and scouts, has been described by United as offering “voluntary resignation.” However, SunSport reports suggest that many employees perceive it as voluntary redundancy, given the current staff count at the club exceeding 1,000.
According to The Athletic, this move is part of Ratcliffe’s broader strategy to streamline operations at Old Trafford.
The billionaire’s review encompasses scrutinizing business and operational costs, particularly after the club recorded a £42 million loss.
Reports indicate that Ratcliffe has already implemented significant changes, including discontinuing the option for staff to work from home.
Furthermore, employees were mandated to contribute £20 towards travel expenses for the FA Cup final against Manchester City, a departure from previous perks such as free tickets, transport, and meals.
This cost-cutting extends to matchday benefits, as staff received free tickets for the FA Cup final but without complimentary food or travel this year.
It's worth noting that United is also facing potential exclusion from next season’s Europa League due to Ineos’ ownership of Nice, which also secured qualification for the competition.
UEFA stipulates that Ineos must demonstrate no “decisive influence” over both clubs, failure to which could lead to United being relegated to the Conference League.
