Roy Keane reveals what his wage was at Manchester United as old contracts show unique demand Red Devils legend made to Sir Alex Ferguson

Keane shared unseen details from his United contracts during the latest episode of the Stick to Football podcast. Among the revelations were his weekly wage, major signing bonuses and special perks negotiated during his time at Old Trafford. Gary Neville also compared his own earnings, highlighting how different contracts were back then compared to modern-day salaries.

Keane revealed he signed several contracts over the years, with his wages climbing from £20,000 per week to a £2.75m annual deal. One 1999 contract included a staggering £4m signing-on bonus, alongside the unusual request for 20 annual return flights to Cork for him and his family. Neville was shocked by the details, admitting he never once negotiated his wages, while Keane explained the incentives were designed to keep him performing at the highest level.

Keane’s United career saw him win 17 trophies between 1993 and 2005, cementing his place as one of the club’s greatest captains. Neville, who played alongside him throughout much of that period, finished with 21 pieces of silverware before retiring in 2011. Together, they formed part of a dominant era at Old Trafford under Ferguson.

Keane’s stories are likely to fuel more fan interest into how football contracts were structured in the past. The comparisons to modern salaries will continue sparking debate among supporters.