Champions League exit could cost Manchester United in five ways

The odds are stacked against Manchester United as they prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League tonight. Erik ten Hag's side must beat Bayern to have any hope of reaching the knockout stages and they must also rely on Copenhagen drawing with Galatasaray in the other group game.

If United avoid defeat, there is a chance they could finish third in Group A, meaning a Europa League play-off tie and another shot at redemption in Europe.

Many supporters would rather United were knocked out of continental competition altogether than that, but for the club, it would be costly in a number of ways if they exited Europe.

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It is well-known just how lucrative the Champions League is for clubs. Man City earned €80 million from prize money and broadcast deals when they won the trophy and this year's champions will receive over €85m.

In the worst-case scenario, United will take home €19.37m - €15.64m for taking part in the group stage, €2.8m for beating Copenhagen and €930,000 for a draw against Galatasaray.

The Champions League is not only lucrative for competition income but also because it grants additional matchday revenue across the course of a season.

While Ten Hag and his players might begrudge the packed fixture schedule, the bottom line is that more games equals more money for those at the very top. United make an estimated €5m a match from games at Old Trafford, so staying in either European competition would be a boost for their finances.

A place in the Europa League would still bring in a decent amount of money, but it could hamper United's hope of reaching the Champions