Manchester United fans have been left frustrated after learning that Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial contract with the club has been terminated.
The decision comes as part of INEOS’ ongoing cost-cutting measures following the company’s investment in the club.
Cost-Cutting Hits the Legend
The decision to end Ferguson’s multi-million-pound salary, which he has received since retiring in 2013, has not gone down well.
While the former Manchester United boss earned an impressive £2,165,000 between October 2013 and June 2014, those payments are set to stop.
Reports say that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, head of INEOS, personally delivered the news to Ferguson during a meeting at Old Trafford.
Fans Express Outrage
Supporters are far from pleased, with many viewing the move as a sign of disrespect toward the man who brought 38 trophies to the club during his 26-year tenure.
Social media erupted with comments, with one fan writing, “Shocking decision. Was it really needed?”
Another joked, “Looks like even the legends can’t escape the budget cuts!”
Others shared similar sentiments, expressing frustration over how the club handled the situation.
One fan asked, “Is this not effectively his pension?” while another simply stated, “What???? That’s very disrespectful to Sir Alex!!!”
A Change in Club Culture?
Despite the fan outrage, reports indicate that the situation was handled amicably, and Ferguson will still serve as a non-executive director and be welcome at matches.
This move is just one part of a broader effort by Ratcliffe and INEOS to reduce costs after taking a 25% stake in the club earlier this year.
Their cost-cutting measures also included significant changes to staffing, with around 250 job losses already announced.
Struggles Beyond the Football Pitch
The cost-cutting doesn’t stop with Ferguson’s contract.
Staff have reported a reduction in the quality of amenities provided during matchdays.
Agency workers, who used to receive a lunchbox with various snacks, now claim they are given much less.
In one instance, employees said they were served leftovers from corporate meals, though the club has denied this and insists extra food is prepared for staff.
Some workers even said they were forced to eat their meals next to toilet cubicles.
Divided Opinions Among Supporters
While some fans are upset, others see the cuts as a necessary step toward financial stability.
One supporter commented, “The fact the club was paying a former manager millions a decade after he left shows how badly run things were. This is a good move.”
Additionally, even those in premium seating have noticed the changes, as fewer matchday programs are being handed out, and private chauffeurs and company credit cards are no longer the norm for senior staff.
Perks Cut for Senior Staff
Long-time perks for senior Manchester United employees, such as pre-match parties and post-match meals, have also been scrapped.
Staff were even asked to cover their own transport to the FA Cup Final, a departure from the club’s usual practice of covering these costs.
With all these cuts, fans are left wondering: what’s next for Manchester United under INEOS’ management?
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