Manchester United Football Club reported commercial revenue for the fiscal third quarter ended March 31 was £74.7 million ($101 mm), an increase of 7.3 percent over the prior-year quarter.
Adidas has been the kit sponsor for Manchester United since 2015 when it replaced Nike.
Sponsorship revenue was £42.5 million, a 4.4 percent increase over the prior-year quarter, primarily due to the new Qualcomm front-of-shirt sponsorship agreement, partially offset by changes in other commercial contracts.
Retail, Merchandising, Apparel, and Product Licensing revenue was £32.2 million, an 11.4 percent increase over the prior-year quarter, primarily due to the launch of a new e-commerce model in partnership with Scayle.
Broadcasting revenue for the quarter was £41.3 million, an increase of £3.8 million, or 10.1 percent, over the prior-year quarter, primarily due to the men’s first team playing four additional matches in UEFA competitions in the current year quarter, partially offset by one less match played in domestic cup competitions versus the prior-year quarter.
Matchday revenue for the quarter was £44.5 million, an increase of £14.9 million, or 50.3 percent, over the prior-year quarter, primarily due to playing four more home matches compared to the prior-year quarter, alongside strong demand for our hospitality offering.
The net loss in the period narrowed by £1.27 million from a loss of £70.5 million a year ago. Adjusted EBITDA was £51.2 million against £13.7 million.
Omar Berrada, chief executive officer, commented, “We were proud to reach the final of the UEFA Europa League, but ultimately, we were disappointed to finish as runner-up in Bilbao. We had a difficult season in the Premier League, which we all know fell below our standards, and we have a clear expectation of improvement next season.
“We have been pleased with the performance of our women’s team, with a third-placed league finish, enabling us to qualify for the UEFA Champions League and once again reaching the FA Cup Final. We followed this by reaching the final of the inaugural World Sevens Series. We extended the contract of Head Coach Marc Skinner, reflecting the excellent work he has done with the team this season.
“We remain focused on infrastructure, with the redevelopment of our Carrington Training Complex continuing and on track, which will be the heart of our club, providing world-class facilities for all our teams and our staff. We have also announced our aspiration to pursue a new 100,000-seat stadium, sitting at the heart of the regeneration of the Old Trafford area, which would be a catalyst for growth and investment in our local community. We are continuing to work with all the relevant stakeholders, including central Government, to support their vision for growth,” concluded Berrada.
Outlook
For fiscal 2025, the company tightens its revenue guidance to £660 million to £670 million and expects to be at the higher end of this range. The company also raises its adjusted EBITDA guidance to between £180 million and £190 million.
The club remains in compliance with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules and UEFA’s Financial Fair Play Regulations.
Image courtesy Manchester United