David Gill has vowed to continue giving Sir Alex Ferguson the money he needs to keep Man Utd at the top.
United to reinvest commercial revenue into player recruitment
David Gill has vowed to continue giving Sir Alex Ferguson the money he needs to keep Manchester United at the top after being buoyed by the commercial success of the club.
United were last week named the third richest club in Europe in Deloitte's annual review of finance, and the richest in England, with an overall turnover of more than £286million.
A seven-figure sponsorship deal with worldwide logistics company DHL was also announced, the latest in a succession of similar deals that have helped boost United's commercial revenue to £81million.
And with revenue streams continuing to grow in other sectors, Gill has assured supporters that Ferguson will be provided with funds to help strengthen the squad.
The Red Devils are well placed to secure another Premier League title this season despite not spending too heavily in recent years but they have no intention of taking their foot off the gas in the pursuit of lasting success.
"One of the strengths of this club compared to others is that we get income from all revenue streams," said chief executive Gill.
"Our match day revenue is around 40% of our overall turnover, we are part of a great competition in the Premier League that continues to grow and the commercial sector has gone up from 20% to 30%.
"That will stand us in very good stead. They are all high margins and will continue to give us the money Sir Alex Ferguson needs to keep the club at the top.
"There is a strong desire within our great supporter base for that to happen."
No takeover approach
United look certain to be the first Premier League club to break the £100million barrier for commercial revenue alone.
The most recent three-monthly accounts showed revenues rising to £24million over the first quarter of the accounting year, and it is thought the second, up to 31st December, will be equally strong.
United's new 'territory specific' approach to commercial opportunities, agreed with the Glazer family and implemented by commercial director Richard Arnold, has allowed the Old Trafford outfit to rapidly expand that area of club revenue.
Even if United do not get to the £100million mark this year, it is only a matter of time before they make it, emphasising just how popular the club remains as it pushes towards a record 19th league championship.
Speculation about a potential takeover bid from Qatar lingers, even though the club response remains the same.
"We have received no approach and no approach would be welcome," said a United spokesman. "The club is not for sale."
Romance
Ferguson has never been drawn into a debate about the ownership of the club as he keeps his focus on delivering more and more trophies to Old Trafford.
"The name of Manchester United carries great weight throughout the world," said the manager.
"If you look back, the club were not having the greatest time, but it still had the biggest crowds.
"There is fantastic romance attached to Manchester United. You can't beat it.
"But success is important for the expectations of this club; myself, the players and the staff.
"We don't just want to be a nice little club. If we don't have success as well, we will get criticised."
