Manchester United have reportedly given all non-playing staff one week to decide if they want to resign, as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe moves to cut cost.
Ratcliffe, now controlling 27.7% of the club, some £1.3 billion minority takeover, is keen on reducing costs to comply with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
A mass email sent to staff, excluding coaches and scouts, has been described by United as offering “voluntary resignation.”
However, SunSport have reported that many employees view it as voluntary redundancy, as the current staff count at the club exceeds 1,000.
The Athletic reports that this move is part of Ratcliffe’s broader strategy to streamline operations at Old Trafford.
The billionaire’s review includes examining business and operational costs after the club recorded a £42 million loss.
According to reports, Ratcliffe has already introduced significant changes, such as ending the option for staff to work from home.
Additionally, employees were required to contribute £20 towards travel costs for the FA Cup final against Manchester City.
This was a departure from previous perks that included free tickets, transport, and meals.
This cost-cutting extends to matchday benefits as well. Although staff received free tickets for the FA Cup final, there was no complimentary food or travel this year.
Recall United are also facing potential exclusion from next season’s Europa League due to Ineos’ ownership of Nice, which also qualified for the competition.
UEFA mandates that Ineos must demonstrate no “decisive influence” over both clubs.
Failure to comply could see United relegated to the Conference League.
