Manchester United post another loss and sell turf clumps at Old Trafford

Manchester United has registered its seventh consecutive annual loss after publishing results for the year ending 30 June 2026. As The Guardian reports, the club’s net figure came in at -£43m, taking total losses since 2019 to £444m.

The financial update arrives alongside a new way to generate income: United have relaid Old Trafford’s pitch for the first time in 14 years this summer, and, according to The Guardian, the club has emailed supporters offering them the chance to buy 7cm by 7cm turf clumps for £125.

Revenue tops out, costs hit hard

Despite a record revenue figure of £677.6m (up 1.7% year on year), financing costs proved decisive. The Guardian says net finance costs more than tripled, rising from £21.2m to £69.2m, with foreign-exchange movements and loan refinancing also playing their part.

Wages were one area that did move in the right direction: United’s wage bill dropped £11.3m (3.6%) to £301m. But the improvement wasn’t enough to offset the increased cost of debt, while the accounts were also affected by factors including compensation related to the sacking of manager Ruben Amorim. The club also boosted its borrowing facility by £93m to help fund Old Trafford redevelopment.

In an investor call, CEO Omar Berrada said the results show “the underlying strength of our business” and that the club remains on track, adding that they will keep a disciplined approach to ensure finances stay sustainable. United believes the picture can improve over the next 12 months with a Champions League return and higher sponsorship revenue, with The Guardian citing expected annual contributions of £20m from Betway and £22m from SumUp.