Ahead of the Ballon d’Or ceremony 2024, Manchester United asked their city rivals Manchester City if they could carry their two nominated players - Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo - to the gala event along with their players, which was met with a massive no. This move came as a cost-cutting measure from United, where as stated in a Daily Mail report, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS wanted to save the expenses of hiring a private jet. Erik ten Hag Sacked As Manchester United's Head Coach After Defeat to West Ham in Premier League 2024-25, Ruud van Nistelrooy Appointed Interim Manager.

City owners outright rejected the request, which forced the Old Trafford club to make their travel arrangements for the prestigious Ballon d’Or 2024 event. In the report, United sources mentioned that the club's main reason behind the ask was the environment, as taking a private jet for merely two nominated players would have environmental harm. Often north-western football clubs in England co-hire jets, whenever necessary, including during international duties for players.

Off-late, United have been on a cost-cutting spree, starting with the removal of Sir Alex Ferguson from his ambassadorial role, potentially saving the club 2.16 million pounds per year. Is Lionel Messi Nominated for Ballon d'Or 2024? Check Full Nominee List of France Football Awards

Since INEOS started the cost-cutting drive, United have had 250 employees removed, club credit cards discontinued, and free travel for staff canceled.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 28, 2024 06:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).