Exclusive: Man United stars in line for £30m payout after stunning twist
Manchester United’s players are in line for huge wage increases if they qualify for the Champions League this season, sources have told Football Insider.
Man United secured a 3-2 victory over Fulham on Sunday (1 February), ensuring interim boss Michael Carrick has won all three of his opening games in charge.
The 20-time English champions sit fourth in the Premier League table as they look to qualify for the Champions League.
It is understood the majority of Man United’s stars have a 25 per cent wage increase included in their contracts if they secure a return to European football’s premier club competition.
Sources say the Manchester giants’ wage bill is expected to rise by around £30million as a result of the Champions League qualification bonuses.
How much do Man United pay in wages?
Man United have one of the highest wage bills in the Premier League despite their overall total dropping from £365m in 2023-24 to £313m last season.
That came as a result of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s cost-cutting measures alongside the 25 per cent salary reduction for most of the squad due to their lack of Champions League football.
Man United came close to securing a Champions League return last season, but they were beaten 1-0 by Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Meanwhile, a 15th-place finish in the Premier League under Ruben Amorim meant no European football would be played at Old Trafford this season.
Carrick’s only focus for the remainder of the campaign is on securing a Champions League spot for next season after Man United were dumped out of both domestic cups before his arrival.
How Sir Jim Ratcliffe is looking to reduce Man United's wage bill
Football Insider previously revealed Ratcliffe is looking to reduce Man United’s wage bill to under £300m.
However, the Champions League bonuses would make that target difficult to achieve.
It has been confirmed Casemiro – the club’s highest earner at £375,000 a week – will be leaving Old Trafford once his contract expires on 30 June.
Finance expert Stefan Borson told Football Insider Man United will save around £20m following Casemiro’s exit once bonuses and additional payments are included.
However, replacing the Brazil international could prove to be a costly exercise after he’s played a significant role this season.
The 33-year-old midfielder has started in 21 of his 23 appearances as he looks to help Man United secure a return to the Champions League before leaving Old Trafford this summer.
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