Carrick confirms talks for money-spinning friendlies as Manchester United’s quietest season in 111 years bites revenue | OneFootball

Michael Carrick has confirmed that Manchester United are in discussions about arranging mid-season friendly fixtures to boost the club's finances.

Manchester United missed out on European qualification for the 2025-26 campaign after finishing 15th in the Premier League last season, a significant blow to the club's revenues.

In addition, the Red Devils exited both domestic cup competitions in their first fixture this season. It's the first time the club have suffered first-fixture League Cup and FA Cup exits in the same season since 1982. It meansManchester United will play just 40 games in all competitions this season, their lowest number of games in a campaign for 111 years (1914-15, 39 games).

Carrick has confirmed that discussions are taking place to fill the gaps in the schedule with high-profile friendly fixtures.

Internal talks have been held between club officials over the prospect of mid-season games in Saudi Arabia, which could earn around £5million per game, according to theManchester Evening News.

In an era where thePremier League's financial rules are more prominent than ever, the games would represent a sizeable boost to the club's balance sheet.

"At this stage, there is nothing confirmed. We’re aware of the schedule and there are some spaces we can use in different ways," Carrick said at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday lunchtime.

"It’s all up for discussion at the moment but nothing has been decided. It might happen, it might not, we will see."

Carrick's chief priority will be securing a Champions League return. The interim manager has overseen consecutive wins over Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham since taking the reins from Ruben Amorim. That run has lifted United into fourth in the table.

This weekend, the Red Devils are aiming to secure a fourth straightPremier League