Man United withhold free Europa League final tickets from staff

Manchester United have decided not to offer free tickets to club staff for the upcoming UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao, as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ongoing cost-cutting measures.

According to the Daily Mail, United have chosen to sell their full allocation of 15,000 tickets to fans, rather than setting any aside for employees.

In contrast, Tottenham Hotspur, who will also compete in the final, are providing each of their 700 staff members with one free ticket.

Instead of matchday tickets, United plan to host a screening of the final for staff members, with the option to bring a guest.

Attendees will be offered two complimentary drinks each, though guests will have to pay for their own.

United officials reportedly justified the move by stating that the club’s top priority is to maximise ticket availability for travelling fans.

This decision follows a series of cost-reduction efforts initiated under minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, including a controversial restructuring process that has already resulted in the loss of 450 staff jobs.

Before the final in Spain, Ruben Amorim’s side will face West Ham and Chelsea in their final two Premier League fixtures, scheduled for May 11 and May 16, respectively.