Russia, Usain Bolt and Accusation of Betrayal against Manchester United?

Last week Manchester United Football Club (MUFC) announced a five-year sponsorship deal with Aeroflot, a Moscow-based international airline. Aeroflot is to become MUFC official carrier. It is believed to be a first of such deal involving Russian company. Aeroflot is one of the airlines with the youngest fleets (average of five to six years). While not much is known about Aeroflot in this part of the world, ManUtd.com reported close to 18 million followers in Russia. With Manchester United such a recognized brand globally, fans can take great pride with the club’s commercial achievement, with the hopes that eventually this will translate to reduction in the cub’s debt.

 

Meanwhile Usain Bolt, arguably the greatest sprinter of all time gets to play (or make his debut) for Manchester United in one of their pre-season friendlies (it is actually a testimonial match for Rio Ferdinand). It will even be shown live by BT Sport. Can anyone imagine a sprinter, without team training taking part in a high profile football match? Don’t get it wrong, everybody with knowledge of sports love this guy, naturally talented, highly enthusiastic and charismatic in nature as well as a legend in his sport. Manchester United fans could be enlightened with the fact that this testimonial match takes place two days before the premier league’s curtain raiser – the FA Community Shield against Wigan. As such David Moyes would have already made up his mind on his probable starting XI for the game against Wigan and ensure that this testimonial has little disruption to the team’s preparation for the new season. Does this mean Rio Ferdinand wouldn’t feature against Wigan? Needless to say this testimonial is a game not to be miss with Usain Bolt featuring as well as tribute to Rio Ferdinand’s long service to the club.

 

Elsewhere, BBC commentator Jacqui Oatley “accuses Manchester United of betraying female game”!. Aggressive feminism as some readers has suggested? Or simply headlines grabber? Well, you can’t please all of them!.