Manchester United are exploring a high-profile mid-season friendly that could see a Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick, according to reports from The Sun.
The club suffered humiliating early exits from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, marking the earliest United have been eliminated from both domestic competitions since the 1981-82 season.
With just 17 matches remaining in the season, the loss to Brighton has left a significant gap in United’s fixture calendar. Coupled with the absence of European football last season, the Red Devils are set to play only 40 games this campaign—the fewest in 111 years.
United are looking to recoup lost revenue and a Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick in a friendly in Saudi Arabia could generate around £10 million.
Financial Implications of a Shortened Season
The financial impact of a reduced schedule has been substantial. Last season, Manchester United earned £160.3 million in match-day revenue from 30 games, boosted by a run to the Europa League Final, where they fell to Tottenham Hotspur.
This year, with ten fewer home fixtures at Old Trafford, the club faces a shortfall, with each match estimated to contribute roughly £5.3 million.
The early FA Cup exit has created two significant gaps in February and March, leaving the club with 13 days off in February and a further 10-day hiatus before the international break.
As a result, United are actively seeking opportunities to fill the calendar while generating revenue.
Saudi Arabia Friendly Could Reunite Legends
Discussions are reportedly underway with the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia about a potential mid-season visit.
The proposed fixture, possibly part of the Riyadh Season Cup, could see Manchester United face Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr and local rivals Al-Hilal.
This high-profile event would mark a Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick, who played alongside the Portuguese star in the 2000s and briefly managed him during his caretaker stint in 2021.
A friendly in Saudi Arabia would not only generate revenue but also serve as a morale boost for the squad.
With early cup exits limiting competitive opportunities, a match featuring two of United’s icons could inspire players while reconnecting the club with fans worldwide.
Revenue Recovery Plans
United have already implemented measures to mitigate the financial impact of a shortened season. Ticket prices have been increased, and new executive seating has been introduced in the lower South Stand at Old Trafford.
Pre-season tours have also contributed, with the Asia tour netting approximately £7.8 million and a US trip nearly matching that figure.
Despite these efforts, United lost an estimated £100 million in prize money after their defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League Final last May. A Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick could help plug this financial gap and provide a much-needed commercial boost.
Potential Opponents and Tournament Format
While nothing has been finalised, potential opponents for the friendly include AC Milan, RB Leipzig, and Sevilla—clubs also absent from European football this season.
The proposed three-way tournament in Riyadh would not only showcase United and Ronaldo but could become a marquee event for fans in the Middle East and worldwide.
Carrick’s Role in the Reunion
Michael Carrick, appointed interim head coach until the end of the season, stands to benefit from a Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick.
Working with one of the club’s greatest ever players could provide inspiration for the current squad and strengthen the connection between past legends and present stars.
Such an event would also offer Carrick a unique platform to motivate his players and demonstrate leadership while navigating a difficult season.
With limited competitive matches remaining, the friendly could inject excitement and confidence into the squad ahead of the final stretch.
Looking Ahead
With early domestic cup exits and a shortened fixture list, Manchester United are exploring creative ways to maintain revenue and morale.
A Cristiano Ronaldo reunion with Michael Carrick in Saudi Arabia could deliver both financial gains and a memorable spectacle for fans, while giving Carrick and the squad a platform to build momentum for the remainder of the campaign.
As discussions continue with Saudi officials and potential opponents, the prospect of seeing two United legends together on the pitch once again is generating considerable anticipation.
For the Red Devils, the event could help bridge the gap left by lost revenue while providing a rare highlight in an otherwise challenging season.
