Manchester, Jan 2 (NationPress) Currently positioned 14th out of 20 in the Premier League, the renowned Manchester United is facing a potential relegation threat for the 2024-25 season. Such a development would not only tarnish their reputation but also significantly impact the financial health of the Red Devils in numerous ways. A drop to the Championship, the league below the Premier League, would strip Manchester United of their lucrative Premier League revenues and many vital sponsorship agreements.
Among the sponsors likely to sever ties with Manchester United in the event of relegation is the prominent German sportswear company Adidas.
Manchester United has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Adidas as their main shirt sponsor. In June 2023, they celebrated a 10-year contract extension worth £900 million ($1.12 billion) for the full duration of the agreement. However, reports from The Telegraph indicate that the club's precarious standing in the Premier League poses a risk to their ongoing partnership with the German brand.
Currently, United is merely seven points clear of the relegation zone. The Telegraph has reported that Adidas holds the right to terminate their contract with the club early, requiring a one-year notice if Manchester United faces relegation to the Championship in the upcoming season.
Recently appointed manager Ruben Amorim has acknowledged that the Red Devils are entangled in a relegation struggle after a 2-0 defeat against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Monday night.
The last instance of United's relegation from the old First Division was in 1974, although they managed to bounce back immediately. In their last five Premier League matches, Manchester United has only secured a single victory, amassing 22 points from 19 games, with just six wins.
The Red Devils are set to face another challenging match against league leaders Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday (January 5). Their last victory at Anfield dates back to January 2017 under Louis van Gaal, where Wayne Rooney netted the decisive goal. A defeat against the Reds this Sunday could see them slide further down the table, especially with Crystal Palace lurking just two points behind and scheduled to face Chelsea on Saturday.
