Manchester United will reportedly play a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia after embarking on a post-season tour of Malaysia and Hong Kong at the end of last season. The Red Devils’ fortunes have improved since the beginning of October, and they are currently unbeaten in five games.
British businessman Sir Jim Ratcliffe bought a minority stake in United in late 2023, with the purchase approved several months later. The 73-year-old now has full responsibility for football at Old Trafford, while also looking to cut costs and increase revenue off the pitch.
According to The Sun, United are expected to announce a friendly in Saudi Arabia in the coming weeks.
At this stage it is unclear who the Red Devils will face in the Middle East, with a number of big stars currently plying their trade in Saudi Arabia.
Former United forward Cristiano Ronaldo joined Al Nasr after leaving United at the end of 2022 and remains at the club, as does former Liverpool winger Sadio Mane. Additionally, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante both play for Al Ittihad, while British player Ivan Toney is at Al Ahly.
Since arriving at Old Trafford, Ratcliffe has been looking at ways to reduce spending while bringing in more money.
INEOS bosses have overseen multiple rounds of job cuts, with many staff losing their jobs.
And in May, the club was said to be prioritizing supporters over staff, and also refused to give employees free tickets to the Europa League final.
In an effort to increase revenue, Ratcliffe has decided to offer supporters the opportunity to tour United’s Carrington training centre. The Red Devils spent around £50 million upgrading their training facilities, with the work taking a year to complete.
Supporters can pay £100 for the four-hour experience, which includes visits to Old Trafford and the training base.
Adults over 65 and under 16 will reportedly be expected to pay the same price for the tour. This includes access to changing rooms, recovery areas, gyms, player lounges and press conference rooms. However, fans will not be allowed to take photos of United’s inner sanctum at Carrington.
United entered the international break in seventh place in the Premier League after drawing 2-2 with Tottenham on Saturday. Ruben Amorim’s side will then return to action on Monday 24th November when they host Everton.
