Manchester Utd replaced by Real Madrid as top earners

Manchester Utd has been knocked from the top spot in the league table of the world’s richest football clubs, according to the annual rich list report from UK consultants, Deloitte.

Manchester Utd had topped the previous eight editions of the Deloitte Football Money League, but relinquished its crown to Real Madrid, despite the Spanish giant’s recent lack of footballing success.

The author of the report, Dan Jones, said “a remarkable transformation” had taken place at Real Madrid, as the club’s revenue has doubled over the past five years – mainly due to commercial revenue streams – led in no small part by the acquisition of huge footballing stars, including David Beckham.

Manchester Utd returned revenue of £166m (e246m) and Madrid £186m (e275m).