Man Utd's poor start to season increases fears that club could lose out on £160m

Manchester United’s nightmare start to the season is not only piling pressure on Rúben Amorim, but also threatening to inflict a massive financial blow on the club.

According to reports, failure to qualify for Europe could cost United up to £160 million in lost revenue, sponsorship downgrades, and prize money — a scenario that has Old Trafford executives deeply concerned.

United have endured their worst league start in over three decades, leaving them in the bottom half after a humbling 3-0 defeat to Manchester City.

While the board has publicly backed Amorim, the club is facing what insiders describe as a “£20m dilemma.” That figure refers to the cost of dismissing Amorim just months after hiring him — a payout United are reluctant to sanction given their precarious financial outlook.

The stakes are enormous. Without European football, broadcasting revenue and commercial deals could take a hit, while fans have grown increasingly restless with the direction of the team.

United’s current contracts with major sponsors, including Adidas and TeamViewer, contain clauses linked to Champions League participation. Missing out for another year would weaken negotiating power and reduce cash flow.

Amorim’s position is further complicated by the scale of the rebuild. The club spent heavily on Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, and Senne Lammens this summer, while moving André Onana out on loan.

Those investments were made with the expectation of returning to Europe quickly — especially the Champions League, where the financial rewards are critical.

The Portuguese coach insists he will stick to his system and has called for patience, but legends such as Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand have warned that results must improve soon.

Otherwise, not only will United’s league standing suffer, but the financial cost could limit future transfers and long-term planning, reported FourFourTwo.

United are caught between two risks: pay a hefty compensation fee to change manager now, or gamble on Amorim to steady the ship and keep European hopes alive. Either way, the next few months will shape not just this season, but the club’s financial health for years to come.