Avram Glazer’s Man Utd commercial claim emerges amid fan protests

Avram Glazer reportedly told investors that clubs of Manchester United’s size can generate substantial commercial revenue without success on the pitch.

The Standard, citing The Athletic, reports that United’s co-chairman made the remarks at the Deutsche Bank Sports Investment Conference in London.

The report arrives after supporters protested during Tuesday’s Champions League win over Roma. The comments themselves were made before that match.

What did Avram Glazer say about Manchester United?

Glazer reportedly compared United’s commercial position with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees, pointing to the lasting appeal of established sporting brands.

Deutsche Bank’s own account of the conference describes a wider discussion about how globally recognised teams retain commercial value through changes in their results.

It also records Glazer describing supporters as “the lifeblood of the team” and saying: “We’re in the business of memories.”

The bank’s summary emphasises the responsibility that comes with a large following and the importance of keeping supporters connected to their club. It does not present Glazer’s comments as a statement that winning is unimportant.

Ownership protests continue at Old Trafford

Supporters threw tennis balls onto the pitch during the Roma match, briefly interrupting play, while green and gold balloons were released before kick-off.

The demonstrations targeted both the Glazer family and INEOS.

On the pitch, Michael Carrick’s side recovered from two goals down to win 3-2 and end a nine-match winless run. Our Manchester United vs Roma reaction covers Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer’s assessment of the comeback.

The result brought relief for Carrick, but the demonstrations showed that dissatisfaction with the ownership remained. Follow our Manchester United news coverage for further developments at Old Trafford.