Manchester United is in line to collect roughly $2.6 million from FIFA for releasing its players to compete in the 2026 World Cup.
The payout comes through FIFA’s Club Benefits Programme, a mechanism designed to compensate clubs when their contracted players leave for international duty. For the 2026 cycle, the programme’s total pot sits at $355 million, representing a 70% jump from previous World Cup editions. FIFA pays clubs approximately $5,000 per player per day, starting from the mandated release date of May 25.
Where United ranks in the payout hierarchy
According to estimates published by The Athletic on July 21, Manchester United lands in the top ten clubs expected to receive funds, roughly tied with Real Madrid.
Manchester City tops the list with an estimated $4.4 million, nearly double United’s haul.
