A sports finance expert believes Manchester United could earn at least an extra £20million a season through their decision to hike ticket prices.
United have said the rise in price will put them “on a stronger financial footing” going forward. The club revealed it had recorded net losses of £133m for the year ending June 30 in September. Dr Rob Wilson, Professor of Applied Sports Finance at Sheffield Hallam University, believes a ticket fee increase of £15 alone would have raked in more than £20m of extra cash for United, albeit the actual rise in price for many is higher.
“Not to the extent that Manchester United will be able to buy a new striker with that money, but it will help toward overall running costs. Putting prices up by £10 to £15 will be around £2million a game and around £20million across a season.” In an email to supporters in response to the criticism received, United said the cash would be used towards club infrastructure and investment into football matters.