Man Utd could lose out on £100m if they fail to win Europa League as expert makes 'boom or bust' declaration about Red Devils

Despite United's historic success in European competitions, having reached four Champions League finals and winning two over the past 35 years, few ties have carried such serious off-field consequences as this upcoming fixture.

The Red Devils’ struggles in the Premier League this season have been well-documented. Slumped in 14th place and trailing sixth-placed Newcastle by a daunting 21 points, United have little hope of securing European football through their league standing. Their misery was compounded by a recent FA Cup exit at the hands of Fulham, who secured a fifth-round victory at Old Trafford, effectively shutting off another potential path into Europe. Now, their sole remaining route to European competition next season hinges entirely on winning the Europa League.

Speaking to Genting Casino, Professor Rob Wilson, Director of Executive Education at the University Campus of Football Business, outlined the staggering financial stakes United are facing.

“You can put a price tag of £100m on Manchester United’s Europa League run," he said. “It's quite similar to the playoff final and the 100m game. It is literally a boom or bust for them. If they win, they put themselves into the frame for that £100m on the line if they win the tournament. That £100m is made up of the fact that they would not be in Europe if they fail to win. So that's no prize money because it's the Champions League or nothing."

He explained that missing out on European football would mean forfeiting at least £60 million in prize money, while also losing roughly £10m from matchday revenue they would have earned through additional games.

“So it’s at least £60m lost prize money, probably up to about 10m of lost matchday revenue because of the extra games they won't therefore be playing," he added. "Then there are a number of clauses in the commercial deals and sponsorships that mean that some of those values reduce. So I think we comfortably get to £100m in value.”

With so much riding on the outcome, the pressure is immense. Thursday’s encounter marks a defining moment that could either rescue United’s faltering season or plunge them deeper into uncertainty. All eyes will be on San Mames on May 1.