.png)
Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada has issued a stern warning to club employees regarding the unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. In an internal email sent earlier this week, Berrada made it clear that leaking club matters would be considered "gross misconduct," which could result in termination.
The warning comes as Manchester United faces a period of transition and restructuring under the influence of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has been implementing cost-cutting measures, including staff reductions. Reports indicate that up to 200 employees could face redundancy, following a previous round of job cuts affecting 250 staff members.
Berrada’s email, which has since surfaced in the media via Telegraph Sport, explicitly states that the club is taking additional steps to curb leaks and identify those responsible. "Anyone disclosing information outside of the club is breaching their obligations of confidentiality, and we are very clear that this will be considered gross misconduct," Berrada wrote. "To protect the club and its colleagues, additional measures are being put in place to prevent future breaches of confidentiality and also identify any persons responsible."
Employees have also been urged to remain cautious when dealing with journalists, who frequently attempt to extract information through social media, phone calls, and messaging platforms like WhatsApp. Staff have now been instructed to report any external inquiries regarding internal club affairs.
Manchester United’s financial struggles have further compounded the situation, with the club recording losses exceeding £300 million over the past three years. In response, leadership has been actively exploring ways to reduce costs and increase revenue, including streamlining departments and cutting perks.
To address concerns and clarify the club’s direction, United has scheduled a staff meeting on Monday, during which officials are expected to outline further details on restructuring efforts. Employees are hopeful that the meeting will provide transparency amid growing uncertainty about their futures at the club.
Despite the internal turbulence, Manchester United remains focused on its long-term vision, dubbed “Project 150,” which aims to secure a 21st league title by the club’s 150th anniversary in 2028. However, the current atmosphere of instability has left many employees uneasy about the future, particularly as high-profile exits and organizational shifts continue to dominate headlines.
While leaks of sensitive information have long been a concern at Old Trafford, the club’s latest crackdown signals a renewed effort to maintain control over its internal affairs. Whether these measures will succeed in fostering a more secure and unified workplace remains to be seen.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Nat Callaghan, Unsplash / Javid Naderi
