'Nobody told us' - Sir Jim Ratcliffe criticised for quietly ending Man Utd charity payments in latest controversial effort to reduce Red Devils spending

The Association of Former Manchester United Players (AFMUP) has been receiving a significant sum from the club since 1985 but claims it has not received the last two quarterly payments of £10,000. The decision to cease funding has sparked concern among AFMUP trustees, who see the cut as jeopardising the long-standing support provided to former players who contributed to the club in the pre-Premier League era.

AFMUP was established nearly four decades ago to foster a sense of community among former United players, including those who did not make any first-team appearances but signed a professional contract with the club. The charity organises four annual events for these individuals and offers financial assistance for causes such as funerals and local children’s charities.

Jim Elms, an 84-year-old trustee and former United youth and reserve team player, expressed dismay at the abrupt halt in funding.

"We sent a ­letter to say we’ve not been paid," he told The Telegraph. "Nobody came out and told us so we had to send another letter. That’s when we started hearing things that it was going to be the end of us."

According to Elms, United’s chief executive Omar Berrada delivered the news shortly before Christmas.

"Omar was non-committal. He’s going to meet us again in January but he said he couldn’t see it changing," Elms said.

"He didn’t seem to think that we were a necessity. We’ve ran it since 1985. Keeping the old players together. Looking after the ones that couldn’t pay for funerals. I just can’t understand them myself. It’s ridiculous. We give away around £10-20,000 to charity, mostly children’s charities in the local area. We’ve had £20,000 this year but not the rest of it."

Since taking control of United’s football operations, Ratcliffe has implemented significant cost-saving measures, including redundancies and cutting perks for staff and stewards. Reports suggest these include withdrawing travel support for employees to the FA Cup final and cancelling the club’s Christmas party. Additionally, Sir Alex Ferguson’s ambassadorial role has already been put to an end.

Ratcliffe's decision to withdraw financial support has been met with criticism as many view the move as dismissive of the club’s rich history and the individuals who contributed to its legacy before the Premier League era's financial boom. The Red Devils will return to the pitch on Monday evening against Newcastle United at Old Trafford.