Manchester United’s recent drop in football’s revenue rankings has raised serious questions about the club’s financial direction. According to analysis shared by a Sky Sports pundit, the root of the problem is not commercial weakness or global appeal, it’s football performance. More specifically, the absence of Champions League football.
Manchester United’s recent layoffs and aggressive cost-cutting are directly linked to declining football income, especially on the broadcast and matchday side.
United’s broadcast revenue has reportedly fallen by around £40 million, dropping to roughly £180 million. That figure is almost £100 million less than what clubs like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool are currently earning. The reason is simple: those clubs are competing at the highest levels of European football, while United are not.
The biggest financial blow comes from missing out on the UEFA Champions League. Participation in the competition, especially under its new expanded format, brings massive income from broadcasting, prize money, sponsorship bonuses, and global exposure. Estimates suggest that simply qualifying could boost United’s revenue by around £100 million in a single season. Add to that the absence from the FIFA Club World Cup, and the financial gap becomes even wider.
This is why finishing in the top four, or even top five, of the Premier League has become such a priority. With England likely to receive an extra Champions League spot due to UEFA coefficient rankings, fifth place could be enough to secure a return to Europe’s elite competition. For United, this isn’t just about prestige; it’s about survival at the top of football’s financial food chain.
Matchday revenue has also taken a hit. This season, only around 20 games will be played at Old Trafford. Early exits from domestic cups, no European fixtures, and fewer high-profile nights under the lights all mean less income from ticket sales, hospitality, and in-stadium spending. Compared to rivals who enjoy long cup runs and European campaigns, United are operating at a clear disadvantage.
Commercially, the knock-on effects are already visible. United’s kit deal with Adidas reportedly includes clauses tied to Champions League participation. Failure to qualify doesn’t just hurt prestige; it directly reduces guaranteed income. Over time, repeated absences from elite competitions weaken negotiating power with sponsors and partners.
Looking ahead, the outlook for next season could be even tougher. With no European football at all this year and reduced matchday activity, United risk slipping further down football’s money list. However, there is a clear path back.
A return to the Champions League would likely reverse much of this decline almost immediately. Increased broadcast revenue, improved sponsorship terms, more matchday income, and renewed global momentum could signal the start of a financial recovery. The message from the pundit was clear: get back into the Champions League, and the good times, at least financially, will follow again for Manchester United.
