Summary
Manchester United went on a post-season tour in Asia, which was mainly focused on fulfilling commercial deals and earning money. The team played a couple of matches but faced challenges, including a defeat and fans’ dissatisfaction, while balancing commercial obligations.
Key Facts
- Manchester United's tour of Asia was aimed at generating income and managing sponsorship commitments.
- The club expects to make about £10 million from the tour, separate from ticket sales.
- Players expressed the tour was more about revenue than football, though they could not say this publicly.
- United played a match in Hong Kong, trailing at halftime before winning 3-1 with contributions from young players.
- The tour included commercial activities, with some players traveling separately to attend sponsored events.
- The team had little choice but to participate, as the tour started immediately after their last league game.
- Some players, like Matthijs de Ligt, attended despite not being fit to play, while others declined for personal reasons.
- The atmosphere was relaxed, and some players were seen enjoying leisure activities during the trip.