Man United consider closing London offices as cost-cutting continues | OneFootball

Manchester United will consider terminating their London office lease in Kensington as part of a cost-cutting initiative led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, according to the Guardian.

The club moved into the Kensington Building less than two years ago after their lease in Mayfair expired.

However, with Ratcliffe pushing for all staff to work in Manchester, the 23,000-square-foot office space is now deemed excessive and expensive.

United recently announced a massive transformation plan, which will result in up to 200 people losing their jobs.

Despite committing to retaining a London presence, the club is actively exploring alternative office spaces in the capital.

Downsizing in their current location remains an option, but a full departure from Kensington two years into a 10-year lease appears to be the most likely outcome.

The current London office is less than a mile from the headquarters of Ratcliffe’s company INEOS, but this proximity is unlikely to affect his decision-making.

Intriguingly, Ratcliffe prefers using INEOS offices for club business, with key meetings taking place there rather than in United’s rented space.

United were pioneers among northern clubs in establishing a London office 15 years ago. Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton and Leeds United followed suit.

The London base played a significant role as Man United expanded commercially, providing a centre for senior staff, high-profile transfer negotiations and corporate client meetings.

Under previous executive chairman Ed Woodward, senior leaders operated from London, including key figures such as former transfer negotiator Matt Judge.

However, the club has shifted its operational focus back to Manchester as they drive cost efficiency under Ratcliffe.

They have implemented drastic measures like closing the staff canteen at Old Trafford, with free lunches replaced by fruit.

INEOS has been implementing similar financial streamlining efforts across its portfolio. They ended partnerships with Sir Ben Ainslie’s America’s Cup team and New Zealand Rugby’s All Blacks.

Man United emailed staff confirming plans to reduce its London workforce. Some employees at Old Trafford will also be relocated to Carrington due to space constraints at the stadium.

The potential closure of the Kensington office is another step as Ratcliffe bids to create a leaner, more financially efficient football club.

Ratcliffe has already implemented workplace changes such as banning remote work.

This has led to repurposed corporate hospitality boxes at Old Trafford being used as temporary office spaces on non-match days.