Sassuolo midfielder Nemanja Matic has offered a candid assessment of his time at Manchester United, suggesting the club prioritized marketing efforts over sporting success. The Serbian international, currently enjoying a career resurgence in Italy, revealed that a significant portion of players’ time was dedicated to promotional activities, potentially at the expense of on-field preparation. His comments, made in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, shed light on the internal dynamics at Classic Trafford during his tenure and contribute to a broader conversation about the modern priorities of elite football clubs.
Matic joined Manchester United in 2017 from Chelsea, reuniting with manager José Mourinho. He quickly established himself as a key player in midfield, providing stability and experience. However, his time at the club coincided with a period of relative decline, as United struggled to consistently challenge for major honors. He departed for Roma in 2022, again linking up with Mourinho, before moving to Sassuolo in August 2025, following a brief spell at Lyon. His current form with Sassuolo, recently promoted to Serie A, demonstrates a revitalized player contributing to a team exceeding expectations.
The Marketing Focus at Manchester United
Matic’s central claim revolves around the disproportionate emphasis placed on marketing activities during his time at Manchester United. He stated that players were required to dedicate approximately two hours each week to commercial engagements. While acknowledging the importance of revenue generation for a club of United’s stature, Matic implied that this commitment detracted from valuable training and preparation time. This assertion raises questions about the balance between commercial interests and sporting performance at the club. The veteran midfielder’s perspective offers a rare insight into the demands placed upon players in the modern game, where commercial obligations are increasingly prevalent.
The financial landscape of modern football is undeniably complex. Manchester United consistently ranks among the world’s wealthiest football clubs, with revenue streams extending far beyond matchday income and broadcasting rights. According to Deloitte’s Football Money League report for the 2023/24 season, Manchester United generated €689 million in revenue, placing them third globally. Deloitte Football Money League 2024 A significant portion of this revenue is derived from sponsorship deals, merchandising and other commercial activities. However, Matic’s comments suggest that this pursuit of revenue may have arrive at a cost to the team’s focus on footballing matters.
Pressure and Expectations at Old Trafford
Beyond the marketing demands, Matic also highlighted the intense pressure and expectations that permeated the Manchester United dressing room. He noted that the club’s historical success created a weight of expectation that proved difficult to manage, particularly as the team’s performance began to falter. He described a situation where even simple passes were met with criticism from the demanding Old Trafford crowd, creating a challenging environment for younger players.
The pressure to succeed at Manchester United is legendary. The club boasts a rich history of success, having won a record 20 English league titles, 12 FA Cups, and three European Cups/Champions Leagues. This legacy creates a unique set of expectations for players and managers alike. Recent seasons have seen the club struggle to live up to these expectations, leading to increased scrutiny from fans and the media. Matic’s observation that the club was no longer the undisputed dominant force in English football adds another layer to this complex dynamic.
Ownership Concerns and a Shift in Approach
Matic’s critique extended to the club’s ownership, suggesting that they were out of touch with the expectations of the fanbase. He implied that the owners were more focused on commercial ventures than on investing in the footballing side of the operation. This sentiment echoes concerns that have been voiced by many Manchester United supporters in recent years regarding the Glazer family’s ownership. The Glazers have been the majority owners of Manchester United since 2005, and their tenure has been marked by periods of both success and controversy.
In December 2023, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe acquired a 27.7% stake in Manchester United, becoming a co-owner and assuming control of football operations. Reuters: Ratcliffe completes 27.7 pct stake in Manchester United This move was widely welcomed by fans, who hope that Ratcliffe will bring a renewed focus on footballing success. Matic’s comments suggest that a change in approach was needed, and the arrival of Ratcliffe may signal a turning point for the club.
A Positive Outlook for the Future?
Despite his criticisms, Matic expressed optimism about the future of Manchester United, praising the appointment of Michael Carrick as manager. He believes that Carrick, a former Manchester United player himself, has the potential to rebuild the team and restore it to its former glory. Matic acknowledged that Carrick will need time to implement his vision, but he expressed confidence in the former midfielder’s abilities.
Carrick was appointed as Manchester United’s interim manager in November 2021, following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjær. He subsequently left the club in December 2022 to take the managerial role at Middlesbrough. His return to Manchester United, albeit in a different capacity, represents a commitment to the club’s long-term development. Matic’s endorsement of Carrick suggests that the former midfielder is well-respected within the dressing room and possesses the qualities needed to succeed.
Matic’s Resurgence at Sassuolo
Currently, Matic is experiencing a career revival at Sassuolo, demonstrating his continued quality and commitment to the game. Having signed a one-year contract with the newly promoted Serie A side in August 2025, he has quickly become a key player in their midfield. ESPN: Ex-United vet Matic signs for promoted Sassuolo This move represents a fresh start for the experienced midfielder, allowing him to showcase his abilities in a different league and environment. His ability to adapt and contribute at a high level at the age of 37 is a testament to his professionalism and dedication.
Sassuolo’s promotion to Serie A marks a significant achievement for the club, and Matic’s presence adds further credibility to their ambitions. The club has established a reputation for developing young talent and playing attractive, attacking football. Matic’s experience and leadership qualities are expected to be invaluable as Sassuolo navigate the challenges of the Italian top flight.
Nemanja Matic’s reflections on his time at Manchester United offer a valuable perspective on the complexities of modern football. His comments highlight the delicate balance between commercial interests and sporting performance, the pressures faced by players at elite clubs, and the importance of strong leadership and a clear vision. As he continues to excel at Sassuolo, Matic’s career serves as a reminder that passion, dedication, and a commitment to the game can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.
The next key development for Manchester United will be the summer transfer window, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team look to further strengthen the squad. Fans will be keenly watching to observe how the club navigates the market and whether they can finally deliver the success that the club’s history demands. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of Manchester United and the wider world of football.