Manchester United Women will be one of eight clubs participating in a groundbreaking new competition this May, offering a record-breaking prize pool and global visibility.
The inaugural seven-a-side event is scheduled to begin just three days before this year’s Women’s Champions League final.
According to BBC’s report, the competition is set to take place from 21-23 May in Estoril, Portugal.
United will be joined by Ajax, Benfica and Bayern Munich, with the remaining four clubs still to be announced.
It’s currently unclear whether any teams will be drawn from outside Europe.
The prize pot for the tournament is set at $5 million (£3.76 million).
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A figure that significantly outpaces rewards offered by existing competitions in the women’s game.
By comparison, this season’s Women’s Champions League winners could earn up to £1.2 million.
A figure rising to £2.4 million from 2027-28.
WSL champions will receive £500,000, while the FA Cup winners will collect £430,000.
United boss Marc Skinner welcomed the opportunity, saying: “This is a really exciting opportunity to be part of something new for the women’s game.”
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Flights and accommodation will be fully covered for all clubs, as per BBC’s report.
Revenue from the prize money will be split between clubs, players and staff.
Jennifer Mackesy, minority owner of Gotham FC and Chelsea FC, has backed the tournament financially to enable such a lucrative prize pool.
Adrian Jacobs, head of football for the tournament, said: “We would expect a first-team squad.
“We also know this is an opportunity for other players and for people who want to really express themselves on a completely different stage.”
Four Manchester United lionesses set to take part in Portugal
Four Lionesses – Ella Toone, Grace Clinton, Maya Le Tissier and Millie Turner, are expected to be part of United’s squad in Portugal, although final rosters have yet to be confirmed.
The competition is strategically placed on the calendar, taking place six weeks before Euro 2025 and while the NWSL season is ongoing.
Thus, poses intriguing squad selection challenges for global clubs.
DAZN have secured a multi-year broadcast deal.
Matches are expected to be streamed via club platforms or websites.
A second edition of the tournament is already in the pipeline and planned to be held in North America later this year.
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