United's revenue rises despite struggles

A rise in revenue at Manchester United comes despite a poor run of results under new manager David Moyes that has left them in seventh place.

Manchester United may be struggling to defend the Premier League title but their "disappointing" form has yet to have an impact on their commercial performance.

Hours before their match away to title contenders Arsenal, United reported commercial income of STG42.3 million ($A77.4 million) - up 18 per cent for the quarter and 30 per cent on the year so far.

In the quarter to December 31, United initiated six new sponsorship deals, proof of the English football giants' enduing global commercial appeal.

This was despite a poor run of results under new manager David Moyes that has left United in seventh place, a huge 16 points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea and in danger of missing out on a place in next season's European Champions League.

United chief executive Ed Woodward, while welcoming the figures, admitted the club's on-field form was a concern.

"We once again achieved a record revenue quarter with strong contributions from our commercial and broadcasting businesses despite the current league position, which everyone from the team manager down has acknowledged is disappointing," he said.

"We continue to see meaningful opportunities to grow our commercial business and the popularity of football on TV is leading to continued broadcasting revenue growth - all of which bodes well for the long-term stability and financial strength of our business.

"We are also very pleased to have added a world class player in Juan Mata to our squad, who has already made a positive impact."

Broadcasting revenue for the period climbed to STG46.9 million, a rise of 18.7 per cent, due to an increase in revenue from the Premier League domestic and international rights agreements, as well as extra income from the Champions League fixed pool distributions given United won the Premier League title last term.


2 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


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