Manchester United has introduced a new approach to corporate hospitality that sees injured and suspended players interacting with premium ticket holders before matches at Old Trafford.
Red Devils' New Matchday Experience
While some critics have suggested the move represents another cost-cutting measure by co-owners Ineos, club officials maintain the initiative strengthens connections between Ruben Amorim's squad and supporters. The program specifically targets corporate clients who pay substantial sums for matchday privileges.
The club believes this personal interaction enhances the experience for high-paying supporters while keeping sidelined players engaged with the fanbase during their recovery or suspension periods.
Cricket Legend Takes New Role
In other sports news, Sir James Anderson is set to become Lancashire's red-ball captain for the 2026 county season. The England bowling legend temporarily assumed the role at the end of last season and has now been confirmed as the choice of new coach Steven Croft for the permanent position.
Anderson's influence at Old Trafford is already being felt, with new signing Ajeet Singh Dale citing the opportunity to learn from England's leading wicket-taker as a major factor in his decision to join the club.
Anderson recently prepared for potential challenges ahead by spending time on the water with Sir Ben Ainslie before the Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix, demonstrating his commitment to leadership development.
Women's Super League Faces Growing Pains
The Women's Super League has attracted investment interest according to a Bloomberg report, though the competition continues to experience growing pains. Recent incidents highlight ongoing infrastructure issues, including Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor skipping a post-match press conference after her side's disappointing draw with Liverpool.
More concerningly, reporters covering Manchester United's women's team at Leigh Sports Village have resorted to bringing their own toilet paper due to shortages at the council-operated facility. United officials have committed to raising the tissue issue with Wigan Council.
Despite these challenges, the investment interest signals growing commercial confidence in women's football, though basic facility improvements remain necessary.
Sports World Roundup
West Ham United legend Alan Devonshire managed his final Maidenhead United match after two lengthy stints totaling 913 games, seven trophies, and two promotions. The 69-year-old's departure also marks the end of an era for boardroom catering, as his wife Christina regularly prepared meals for four home matches, with her curry becoming particularly legendary among club insiders.
In combat sports news, Cristiano Ronaldo has become a major shareholder in WOW FC, a Spanish MMA promotion with global ambitions. The investment coincides with the formation of the Federation of International Mixed Martial Arts (FIMMA), which aims to include MMA in the Olympic program.
The sports marketing world is witnessing an unusual public dispute between industry veterans Michael Payne and Patrick Nally. Payne's new book examining 50 years in sports marketing has drawn criticism from Nally, who feels inadequately credited for his contributions as the 'Founding Father' of sponsorship.
