Manchester United are in line to net a very lucrative amount if their plans to take part in mid-season matches in Saudi Arabia go through.
United planning mid-season Saudi games
Earlier this month, a report covered by The Peoples Person revealed that United had opened talks over playing a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia as part of an attempt to generate more revenue.
United failed to qualify for Europe during an extremely poor 2024/25 campaign in which they finished in 15th position and lost to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final. Missing out on the Champions League proved costly for the club, denying them a massive £85 million payday.
With the Red Devils’ finances under pressure, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have been exploring multiple strategies to steer the club back to profitability.
United took part in a post-season tour of Asia which is believed to have earned the club around £8m.
Now, according to the Daily Mail, Ruben Amorim’s side could make much more from a visit to Saudi during Riyadh Season, which kicks off on Friday through to March.
How much United stand to rake in from Saudi fixtures
The Daily Mail report that United stand to pocket north of £10 million if they reach an agreement to play in Saudi Arabia this season.
The newspaper notes, “The General Entertainment Authority (GEA), headed by Turki Alalshikh, released an initial schedule on Monday and there is a gap for a high-profile football event.”
“One of the three options open to United would be to take part in the Riyadh Season Cup, a three-way tournament against the capital’s two biggest clubs, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr and Darwin Nunez’s Al-Hilal, which featured Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in February.”
“United would be expected to earn around £5m per game plus more in prize money if they win, and additional revenue from commercial opportunities during an extended stay in Saudi.”
Another option being considered is a shorter trip, where United would play an exhibition match against a Saudi All-Star side. Such a move could bring in around £5m.
Additionally, the 20-time English champions could visit the Saudi royal family or the GEA and hold a warm-weather training camp before playing a one-off match, most likely against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr. This deal is valued at £5m.
It’s understood that if these plans go ahead, Saudi will foot the bill for United’s travel, accommodation and training facilities.
Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
