By Michelle Ndaga
Manchester United is in preliminary discussions to stage a mid-season friendly in Saudi Arabia during the 2025-26 campaign, as the club seeks new revenue streams amid mounting financial pressure.
The potential exhibition, which could see United face a Saudi Pro League All-Stars side, comes after the club posted a £113 million loss last year and failed to qualify for European competition, leaving gaps in both revenue and fixtures.
With United sitting 12th in the Premier League after collecting just four points from their opening four matches, officials view the trip as an opportunity to generate income and engage with Middle Eastern fans.
The idea has sparked mixed reactions among supporters. Some welcome the financial pragmatism given the club’s losses, while others have raised ethical concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights record