Arsenal envy Old Trafford's riches
The case for Arsenal's new stadium at Ashburton Grove was strengthened today by Manchester United's formidable financial results.
While the matchday turnover at Highbury last season was £27.9million, United raked in £70.6m. This equates to £960,000 per match at Arsenal, compared to £2.1m at United.
Arsenal hope to bridge this gulf with a new 60,000-seat stadium but the project has stalled due to funding problems.
The huge value of United's global brand was highlighted by their end-of year results.
Arsenal increased their replica shirt sales by 73 per cent last year, boosting their retail income to £8.5m. In comparison, United sold 2.5m shirts worldwide, enough to clothe the entire population of Greater Manchester.
Arsenal's total commercial income was £24m, just over half of the £46.2m United made in the same period. Other major income streams for United were £56.2m from broadcasting and £4.7m from their US tour and hosting the Champions League Final. These contributed to an overall turnover of £173m as opposed to Arsenal's £117.8m.
The one major blip for United last season was the £1.65m fine from the Office of Fair Trading for fixing prices of replica shirts. The club today confirmed they plan to appeal against the decision.
