Manchester United is reportedly planning a post-season trip to Malaysia, a move that echoes a controversial decision made by Tottenham and Newcastle the previous year. Both teams faced criticism after flying to Australia for a money-spinning friendly just after the 2023-24 season concluded, making a 21,000-mile round trip. The timing of the trip raised concerns, especially from England manager Gareth Southgate, who pointed out that it occurred just before international players were due to join their national teams ahead of Euro 2024.
In contrast, Manchester United’s potential trip comes in 2025, a year that does not have a major international tournament, but still features an international break in early June. This break includes England’s World Cup qualifier away in Andorra, scheduled shortly after the Premier League season ends on May 25. Manchester United’s proposed Malaysia tour could reportedly generate up to £7.96 million. Early reports from the New Straits Times suggest that these plans are now being formalized.
Unlike the past two seasons, when United participated in the FA Cup final after the Premier League concluded, the 2024-25 season will end with the final league match, as the FA Cup final is scheduled earlier. Additionally, even if United reaches the Europa League final, it will occur on May 21, giving the team less time to recover before any potential post-season tour.
Former England manager Gareth Southgate spoke about the growing trend of such post-season friendlies, acknowledging that the financial pressure on clubs often leads to these ventures. He noted that, despite the significant amounts of money in football, clubs are still scrambling to generate more revenue due to financial fair play regulations.
Amid these plans, Manchester United has also been cutting costs, including redundancies and removing certain perks. These measures come as part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe looks to streamline the club’s finances. However, a survey of United fans revealed that many are dissatisfied with the way the club is being run under Ratcliffe’s leadership since his partial takeover in February 2024.
