Manchester United Women Pay Own Flights After Champions League Win

Manchester United Women recently faced criticism after the club booked a return flight from Sweden with a stopover following their Champions League qualifying win against Hammarby, leading some players to pay for their own direct flights home. While the club chartered a flight for the journey to Sweden to reduce travel time and optimize performance, they did not do so for the return trip, citing an eight-day gap before their next match and cost management considerations. The travel arrangements were discussed with the player leadership group, and several players chose to make their own arrangements, but some expressed anger at having to cover the costs personally. United’s approach contrasts with other Women's Super League clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, and Manchester City, which chartered flights for both legs of their Champions League fixtures. Despite travel issues, the team benefited from high-quality facilities in Sweden, including training at the Swedish FA headquarters and accommodation in a five-star hotel. The club is expected to review its transport strategies for the women’s team with a focus on balancing cost and performance.