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Manchester United icon Gary Neville has taken the lead in generating funds for former players following the decision by manager Sir Jim Ratcliffe to halt financial contributions.
In a bid to reduce expenses, billionaire Sir Jim has ended the club’s yearly £40,000 donation to a fund that assists former players.
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The Association of Former Manchester United Players, founded in 1985, seeks to promote camaraderie, support, and charitable initiatives among its members.
However, a significant portion of its 300+ members competed during times before the current massive salary structures.
In a recent interview, Neville challenged Sir Jim about the situation, remarking: “The former players association has lost £40,000 in funding. This affects players from as far back as the 1960s and ’70s, not just those from the Sir Alex Ferguson era or more recent decades.”
“Why not organize an event to raise the funds? Let’s ensure the ex-players get what they deserve. This is a tough decision.”
In reply, a remorseful Sir Jim acknowledged: “Well, nobody brought that up.”
Now, Neville has worked with the club to set up an event honoring ex-striker Andy Cole, with all proceeds going to AFMUP.
The £125-per-ticket event, set for April 24, will feature renowned manager Sir Alex among the attendees.
AFMUP trustee Jim Elms, at 84, commented: “Gary reached out to me and offered to arrange a Q&A session, and we are excited about this development.”
A source from Manchester United added: “We have always had a strong relationship with the former players’ association, and we are committed to sustaining that tradition.”
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