Players board the plane hours after final match—Amorim defiant, Adidas penalties looming, Fernandes among traveling stars
Following a 15th-place finish in the Premier League and a crushing Europa League final loss, Manchester United are still being sent on a lucrative but controversial post-season Asia tour, with fixtures scheduled against the ASEAN All-Stars and a Hong Kong XI on May 28 and 30 respectively.
Key Highlights:
Revenue Boost: The tour is expected to generate $10 million (£7.8M)—covering 75% of the debt owed to Adidas after failing to qualify for the Champions League two years in a row.
Amorim’s Rationale: The under-fire manager called it a “small sacrifice” to reconnect with international supporters.
Player Backlash: Some players, including Harry Maguire, accepted the decision as necessary but refrained from endorsing it outright—acknowledging that after a disastrous season, “they have no right to complain.”
Squad Notes:
Surprise Inclusions: Despite speculation over their futures, Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, Onana, and Garnacho are part of the touring squad.
Farewell Tour: Veteran Jonny Evans joins the group as a parting gesture, with Lindelof and Eriksen omitted ahead of expected exits.
Youth Injection: Talents like Ayden Heaven, Chido Obi Martin, Sekou Kone, and Jaydan Kamason are included—signaling a preview of United’s rebuild.
The Bigger Picture:
Despite an embarrassing domestic finish, the club’s leadership remains focused on revenue and global branding, sparking frustration from fans and concern among players like Fernandes—who may still depart this summer amid Saudi interest.
The trip reflects the commercial prioritization under INEOS, even as on-pitch results continue to decline and the squad morale remains shaken.
Manchester United’s post-season tour isn’t just a money move—it’s a mirror to th
eir chaotic identity crisis.
