Manchester United faced embarrassment after their request to Manchester City for a lift to the Ballon d'Or ceremony was denied due to a full flight. This request was part of United's cost-cutting measures under new owners, INEOS, which have already led to significant staff layoffs. United nominated players Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho for the Kopa Trophy and sought to avoid the negative optics of sending just two players on a private jet. Meanwhile, City’s delegation includes eight nominees, including Rodri and Erling Haaland, who are expected to compete for top honors. The awards ceremony is set to take place on October 28 at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. Vinicius Junior is favored to win the men's award, with Rodri as a close contender.