Manchester United have abandoned secret negotiations with Amazon over a record-breaking $17.3 million (AUD) documentary series, after head coach Ruben Amorim raised concerns about the potential impact on the team’s performance.
The proposed deal, which was described as Amazon’s largest-ever partnership with a football club, would have seen United feature in an ‘All or Nothing’-style series, granting unprecedented behind-the-scenes access throughout the 2025–26 season.
The streaming giant was reportedly prepared to pay more than £10 million (AUD $17.3m) for exclusive rights, a figure that could have provided a significant financial boost to the debt-laden Premier League club.
United’s business and commercial leadership, including INEOS and new CEO Omar Berrada, were initially supportive of the deal.
With the club facing mounting financial pressures, including sponsor exits and no European football next season, the Amazon partnership was seen as a lucrative opportunity to ease the strain and tap into global streaming audiences.
However, Amorim strongly opposed the project, warning that constant filming and off-field distractions could derail the squad’s focus during a critical rebuild phase at Old Trafford.
His concerns ultimately convinced United’s executive committee to scrap the proposal, despite the potential revenue.
The decision underscores the balancing act United face between commercial expansion and football priorities under Amorim, who is spearheading a long-term restructuring of the squad.
It also highlights the growing influence of the Portuguese manager in strategic decisions, with the board prioritising sporting integrity over short-term financial gain.
United will now look for alternative revenue streams to fill the gap, as the club navigates a delicate financial position marked by heavy debt and rising costs.
Innovative sponsorship deals and global brand activations are expected to feature heavily in the club’s revised commercial strategy.
By walking away from the Amazon deal, Manchester United have signalled that their on-field rebuild under Amorim remains the priority, even as financial challenges loom large in the background.
The club don’t need the added drama that comes with the popular series that has featured other Premier League giants like Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham.
