Manchester United has faced plenty of negative headlines due to their disappointing performances on the pitch this season, but now attention has shifted to off-field decisions.

The club has reportedly decided to remove free meals for staff at both Old Trafford and Carrington while also planning to lay off around 200 employees. This latest controversy has only added to the growing unrest surrounding the club.

Former Manchester United star Paul Parker has voiced his disappointment, calling the situation an embarrassment.

It’s an embarrassment to the club

Speaking to AceOdds, Parker made it clear that this story is another damaging blow to the club's reputation.

“It’s not good when a story like this comes out, especially considering how things already are at the club. It’s the last thing the fans want to hear about,” Parker said.

He also questioned how the news became public, speculating that someone inside the club may have leaked it in protest.

“Stories like this shouldn’t come out. Regardless of how bad things are on the pitch, this just makes it worse. Maybe someone leaked it because they didn’t agree with the decision—it’s almost like a Robin Hood situation.”

“It’s totally embarrassing, and it puts the club in a position where they’re like a lamb to the slaughter. To me, this decision doesn’t seem right.”

Fans Will Forget If the Team Improves

Parker also expressed disappointment over the decision to lay off 200 employees, arguing that those staff members play a crucial role in the club’s operations.

“If we look at the lower-level employees—what they earn and what they contribute—they are the ones who will suffer. And yet, they are exactly the kind of people the club needs,” he said.

“Many of them are lifelong Manchester United fans, with deep family connections to the club. I’m really not happy about this.”

However, Parker admitted that if the team’s performances improve as a result, fans may not dwell on the situation for long.

“But we also have to acknowledge that if results on the pitch improve after these layoffs, fans will forget about it quickly. If it can be proven that these changes make a difference, the fans will accept it.”

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