Manchester United only have themselves to blame for FFP concerns

At a time when Manchester United's finances face fresh scrutiny, it is hard to overlook just how much money they have squandered in recent years.

FFP and Profitability and Sustainability rules are the hottest topics of conversation, and despite declaring record matchday, broadcasting and commercial revenues this week, United still had a net loss of £25.8 million.

In a week that saw both Everton and Nottingham Forest charged with breaching Premier League rules, finance in football has rarely been as big an issue as it is now. United are wary of what business they can do amid the very real threat of fines, points deductions and other sporting sanctions.

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United insist their hands are tied with regards to how much business they can do this month, yet in homage to Houdini, it was themselves who tied them in the first place.

The club has focused on trying to improve their financial situation this month, with the loan exits of Donny van de Beek and Jadon Sancho having helped the situation, while Sergio Reguilon saw his loan deal terminated early.

United are trying to lay the foundations for a seismic summer of change in their first under Ineos but it is hard to have too much sympathy for a side that has already invested £400 million under Erik ten Hag.

The Glazers obviously have to take the brunt of the blame for their villainous running of the club, which has seen them continuously profit despite negligence on the pitch. This week it was revealed that United, rather than the Glazer family, paid Raine Group $31.5 million (£24.9m) to help facilitate Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s bid to