FA Cup deals financial blow to Manchester United

"According to figures published by The FA, clubs eliminated in the fifth round receive £20,000 in prize money but had the Red Devils beaten Chelsea, they would've received a minimum of £80,000 - meaning the club missed out on £60,000. By contrast, a quarter-final victory would have secured £90,000, with £22,500 guaranteed even for the losing side at that stage."

"Although these sums are modest compared to the Premier League broadcasting revenues, they represent meaningful investment opportunities within the women's game - whether through squad depth, facilities or long-term development projects. United's exit therefore not only ends their silverware ambitions for this campaign but also removes the chance to access further prize funds as the competition intensifies."

Manchester United reported £32.6 million in operating profit for the first half of the financial year, demonstrating commercial strength. However, cup eliminations directly affect revenue through structured prize funds. Manchester United Women lost 2-1 to Chelsea in the FA Cup fifth round, receiving £20,000 instead of the £80,000 minimum available for advancing. Quarter-final progression would have secured £90,000, semi-finals guaranteed £40,000, and the competition winner receives £430,000. While modest compared to Premier League broadcasting revenues, these prize funds represent meaningful investment opportunities for squad development and facilities. The exit eliminates both silverware ambitions and access to further prize money as competition intensifies.

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