Manchester United’s Champions League struggles concluded on a disappointing note with a narrow 1-0 defeat against Bayern Munich at Old Trafford. The Champions League Matchday 6 clash of Group A shattered their hopes of advancing, as Erik ten Hag’s team posed no threat to the visitors despite having a home advantage.
The Premier League side finished at the bottom of the group with only a single win in the entire campaign, failing to avoid elimination from the competition. The club now faces a staggering financial loss looming on the horizon following their exit from the UEFA Champions League.
Financial blow for Manchester United post-UCL exit
The Red Devils’ elimination from the Champions League brought not only sporting implications but also a substantial financial loss. Failing to advance to the knockout stage, they missed the opportunity to place themselves in the Round of 16, adding to the monetary blow.
The prize money depends on the team’s performance in the competition. As a result, they face an approximate $40 million monetary setback for not reaching the knockout stage. it includes bonuses of $11 million for reaching the quarter-finals, $13 million for the semi-finals, $16 million for finishing as runners-up, and $21 million for winning the competition.
Additionally, participating clubs earn a share of the broadcast revenue based on the viewership of their matches. Last season’s winner, Manchester City, secured a substantial amount of $63 million overall in broadcast revenue, underscoring the missed opportunity for possible similar financial gains by Manchester United.
The financial setback could have repercussions for the club, considering the staggering amount they have spent on transfers and the potential takeover through Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment deal. Given the total estimated loss, this setback may indirectly impact Erik ten Hag’s plans in the transfer market to bring in big names while complying with Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules.
United’s UCL dreams crushed with defeat to Bayern
Manchester United crashed out of the UCL after losing their final group-stage game. The visitors fully dominated the home side, leading in various statistics. They outnumbered the Erik ten Hag-managed side with more shots taken and on target, as well as having greater control over possession.
Led by Thomas Tuchel, the Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich faced no nuisance from the hosts. Kingsley Coman was the difference-maker with his 71st-minute goal, securing three points and achieving 2 out of 2 wins against United, thus securing the top spot in Group A as the winner.
United needed a win to stay in contention for the next round while hoping for a draw in the Galatasaray-Copenhagen match. Alternatively, securing at least three points could have placed them third and earned them a Europa League spot as a consolation.
