Manchester United's record sponsorship revenues help plug Champions League absence
Manchester United have announced record sponsorship revenues from their lucrative network of international affiliates.
Although total revenues were £395.2m, down from £433.2m, a drop explained by two trophyless seasons and the absence of an estimated £35m from Champions League income, sponsorship spiked by 14.1 per cent to £154.9m.
In the fiscal year ending 30 June 2015, the club signed up five global sponsorship partnerships, four regional sponsorship partnerships and two financial services and telecom partnerships, contributing to the overall sponsorship pot.
Also keeping the club aloft was its record decade-long £750m Adidas kit deal, which was launched in August. During the period, the English top flight side, sitting third in the league to date, also breached 100 million social media followers across all platforms.
Ed Woodward, executive vice chairman, said: “As we look to the new season, we are enthusiastic about our strong position, both on and off the pitch.
“In recent weeks we have further strengthened our squad with an exciting mix of experience and youth, qualified for the group stage of the UEFA Champions League, and seen an impressive launch of our partnership with Adidas.”
The club has projected revenue of £500m to £510m in the current fiscal window closing 30 June 2016.