Manchester United set revenue target of $719 million in 2016
Manchester United expect to make more than £500 million ($719.5 million, 35.4 million euros) in the 2016 financial year, the club announced on Thursday, despite continued underperformance on the pitch. Second-quarter revenues rose by 26.6 percent to a record £133.8 million, with commercial revenues up 42.5 percent to £66.1 million […]

Manchester United expect to make more than £500 million ($719.5 million, 35.4 million euros) in the 2016 financial year, the club announced on Thursday, despite continued underperformance on the pitch.

Second-quarter revenues rose by 26.6 percent to a record £133.8 million, with commercial revenues up 42.5 percent to £66.1 million and broadcasting revenues climbing 31.3 percent to £37.3 million.

Sponsorship revenue also rose by £1.6 million, keeping the club on track to generate between £500 million and £510 million in revenues for the current financial year.

“Our strong commitment to investing in our squad, youth academy and the broader club are ultimately underpinned by our financial strength and the hard work and dedication of everyone at the club,” said executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward in a statement.

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“Our solid results off the pitch help contribute to what remains our number one priority — success on the pitch.”

Despite Woodward’s upbeat message, uncertainty continues to swirl around United manager Louis van Gaal, who has battled speculation about his future for several months.

United limped out of the Champions League in the group phase and face a battle to qualify for next season’s tournament as they currently lie six points below the top four in the Premier League.

They remain alive in the FA Cup and Europa League, but were knocked out of the League Cup by second-tier Middlesbrough.