“Shocked” Hollywood A-lister offered to provide employment references for axed Man United staff | OneFootball

An unnamed Hollywood A-lister was reportedly prepared to provide employment references to Manchester United staff who were made redundant by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Since he assumed operational control of United last year, Ratcliffe has been on a ruthless campaign to slash costs at the club.

United have recorded £300m in losses over the past three years, a figure considered unsustainable within the club, prompting Ratcliffe’s bold restructuring efforts to curb expenses.

Last summer, the Red Devils made 250 employees redundant – a move that earned the ownership group criticism from the media, fans and former players.

It’s understood that more redundancies are on the horizon, with up to 200 more employees at serious risk of being axed.

Earlier on Thursday, a report by The Telegraph relayed that players, past and present, have rallied around affected staff to comfort them.

It’s understood that Eric Cantona, David Beckham, Juan Mata and David de Gea are some former stars who have made personal calls to beleaguered staff to check on them.

Bruno Fernandes, Jonny Evans and Tom Heaton are some members of the current squad who have made efforts to support staff who have lost their jobs.

James Ducker adds that the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson and former United chief David Gill – both of whose contracts with the club were terminated by Ratcliffe – have also expressed concern for affected staff.

“Gill took time out from a holiday visiting family overseas to get in touch with as many as possible. Ferguson has been similarly supportive and generous with his time.”

“In some cases, concern and support has come from the least expected places. One Hollywood star who had become close with a number of staff over the years given United’s frequent visits to the US was shocked to learn about the cuts and her publicist had to be discouraged from ringing the club’s owners.”

“The A-lister was even said to have offered to provide employment references where required.”

The Telegraph state that some staff who have left United have talked about feeling “liberated” but remain sad at how events are unfolding at Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim and his players are back in action on Saturday when they go away to Everton. Kick-off is at 12:30 GMT.

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