Manchester United’s recent upturn in form could not have come at a more crucial time. After a turbulent 2024/25 campaign that saw the club finish a shocking 15th in the Premier League, the pressure is on Ruben Amorim’s side to qualify for next season’s Champions League — and the reasons go far beyond prestige.
According to finance expert Kieran Maguire on Beyond the Back Four, failure to finish in the top four could have massive financial consequences for the Red Devils, who are currently saddled with over £400 million in unpaid transfer fees. Despite a summer spending spree exceeding £218m, United’s long-term stability hinges on the revenue that Champions League participation provides.
Why Manchester United must qualify for the Champions League
Maguire explained the scale of the financial rewards on offer — and why missing out would deepen United’s existing debt problem.
“Champions League is important for Man United. There’s a minimum of £40m in prize money plus £6-7m in gate receipts. Bonuses from sponsors too; Adidas, for example, give an extra £10m. A good run in the Champions League could be worth £150m-200m.” — Kieran Maguire, via Beyond the Back Four
The financial analyst went on to note that, while United’s summer recruitment drive wasn’t curtailed by their absence from Europe’s top competition, the club now faces mounting obligations:
“Money flows through into the transfer kitty. Not being in the Champions League this season didn’t stop summer spending, but Man Utd have debts including over £400m in unpaid transfer fees so they need to pay off those first before looking at new deals.”
United’s spending spree under scrutiny
Despite their mid-table finish last term, United splashed heavily during the summer transfer window under Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ownership. Amorim’s first full pre-season saw five signings arrive — but those deals have piled further pressure on the club’s balance sheet.
| Player | Fee | Signed From |
|---|---|---|
| Benjamin Šeško | £67m | RB Leipzig |
| Bryan Mbeumo | £65m | Brentford |
| Matheus Cunha | £65m | Wolves |
| Senne Lammens | £18m | Royal Antwerp |
| Diego León | £3.5m | Cerro Porteño |
source: club data – 28 October 2025
These signings, while aimed at refreshing the squad, have significantly increased the financial stakes. Football agents have reportedly labelled Šeško’s transfer as one of the “worst deals of the summer” due to his inconsistent start — a criticism that further underlines the risk in United’s recruitment approach.
Our View
In our view, United’s situation is a perfect storm of sporting and financial urgency. Amorim’s side must find consistency not just to silence critics but to ensure the club’s financial health. The Champions League offers vital revenue streams — from broadcasting rights to sponsorship bonuses — that could help offset enormous debts and keep United competitive in future transfer markets.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s outspoken leadership and ambitious overhaul have already divided opinion among fans, but the numbers don’t lie: missing out on the Champions League again would force difficult choices next summer. For United, stability depends on results — not rhetoric.
Key Insights
- Manchester United owe over £400m in unpaid transfer fees.
- Champions League football could bring up to £200m in revenue.
- Adidas alone offer a £10m bonus for qualification.
- United spent £218m this summer under Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
- Ruben Amorim’s side must secure a top-four finish to stay financially stable.
What’s Next
United face Nottingham Forest on 1 November 2025 in the Premier League before turning attention to a key Europa League group game. With form improving, Amorim will hope momentum builds at the perfect time.
But make no mistake — the real victory this season won’t be in domestic cups or silverware. For Manchester United, it’s Champions League qualification or bust.
👉 Can Manchester United afford another season without Champions League football?
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