Manchester United could play mid-season friendlies to 'fill the financial black hole' from failing to qualify for Europe, with four European clubs being named as potential opponents.
It was a season to forget for the Reds, who missed out on an estimated £80-£100 million in prize money after failing to qualify for the Champions League, according to United's co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
A defeat to Spurs in the Europa League final crushed their hopes of securing a place in Europe's elite competition.
And after placing 15th in the Premier League – their worst league finish since 1989–90 – they obviously failed to qualify for the Europa League, which Ratcliffe says was worth £40 million.
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"A good season in the Champions League can be worth far in excess of £100m," Football finance expert Kieran Maguire told BBC Sport. "By the time you combine gate receipts, sponsor bonuses and the prize money available, the numbers involved are eye-watering."
As a result of failing to qualify for Europe, United have plenty of time to prepare on the training ground. In fact, Ruben Amorim's side will play just one midweek game before Christmas, a home clash against West Ham on December 3.
It also looks like United will have eight days between Premier League games outside of the three autumn international breaks.
So, with that in mind, it has been reported that the club could use that time to play 'lucrative' mid-season friendlies which would help boost the club's finances, according to The Sun.
Four European teams named as potential opponents
AC Milan, Lazio, Sevilla and RB Leipzig, who all failed to secure European football coming into the 2025/26 season, have been named as possible opponents.
United earned an estimated £7.8 million during their post-season tour of Asia, which featured games against ASEAN All Stars and Hong Kong.
Speaking about the tour, United's CEO Omar Berrada voiced the importance of friendlies.
"Importantly, Tour fixtures drive significant additional revenue which help make the club stronger, allowing us to keep investing in success on the pitch," he said.
"They also create unique opportunities for us to collaborate with our valued commercial partners, and to deepen relationships with our fans in regions such as Asia and the US."
The report also suggests Ruben Amorim is considering taking his players on a series of 'in-season bonding trips' during their time off.
Topics: Man Utd, Ruben Amorim, Premier League, Champions League, Europa League, Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Jack Kenmare