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Manchester United have a big clash against Chelsea in the Premier League, but as crucial as their trip to Stamford Bridge this Friday might be, most fans have their eyes firmly set on the UEFA Europa League final.
United’s league form has been worrying — they have struggled to maintain their competitive edge for most of the season. They are winless in their last seven league games, with five defeats and two draws, and there is very little excitement among fans surrounding their clash with Chelsea.
Interestingly, United’s struggles have not extended to their Europa League campaign. They have been relentless in Europe, going unbeaten in 14 matches this season, with nine wins and five draws.
That impressive run has secured them a showdown with Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final on May 21 at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao.
With United on the brink of European glory, one might expect the club to spare no expense for the occasion. However, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s budget cuts have affected the final preparations. Club staff will not receive complimentary tickets for the showdown in Bilbao next week.
Ruben Amorim appreciates staff amid INEOS Europa League final cost cuts
The co-owners have reportedly decided to ensure most of the club’s 15,000 allocation goes directly to fans.
While winning a major trophy like the Europa League is a prestigious achievement, many find it disappointing that the club has not tried to reward its staff, those who work behind the scenes to help the team reach such moments.
Paris Saint-Germain, for example, are sending 600 staff members to Munich for their Champions League final against Inter Milan on May 31.
With no club-funded tickets available, United staff have been left to cover their own costs should they wish to attend. However, according to ESPN, manager Ruben Amorim has stepped in with a classy gesture — personally sponsoring his backroom staff for the trip to Bilbao.
When he joined United, Amorim brought several of his trusted coaching staff from Sporting Lisbon, and he has now decided to fund the travel expenses for his support team, including lower-paid members, as a sign of appreciation for their commitment to his project.
“Ruben Amorim has paid for 30 of his Manchester United backroom staff to take their families to next week’s Europa League final in Bilbao, Spain, after being told by the club that his coaches, physios and support team would have to pay for their own tickets, sources have told ESPN.”
Upon learning about the club’s decision not to provide staff tickets, the Portuguese coach reportedly informed United officials that he would cover costs for his team, ensuring each member could bring up two friends or family members to witness the final.
With Amorim’s gesture, one cannot help but think—not all heroes wear capes. Now, all that remains is for the team to rise to the occasion, dispatch Spurs, and bring European glory back to Old Trafford.
If they do, perhaps INEOS will regret not backing their staff for such a monumental night.
Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
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