It has been a lively few weeks in the Manchester football landscape, both on and off the pitch.
While the headlines at Old Trafford have largely centred around transfer activity and the fine-tuning of Ruben Amorim’s squad ahead of the new season, just a few miles away, another club with deep United roots has been making waves of its own.
Salford City, still driven by the competitive spirit of their famous ‘Class of ’92’ ownership, are pushing forward with plans to accelerate their rise up the English football ladder.
The Ammies, who ply their trade in League Two, have already been busy reshaping their squad for the campaign ahead.
A number of new signings have arrived, including the much-anticipated return of a promising young goalkeeper, while off-field developments have been equally ambitious.
Gary Neville and David Beckham, two of Manchester United’s most iconic former players, are now at the helm of a consortium that has completed the takeover from their ex-teammates.
The club’s search for fresh investment, launched back in February 2024, has now delivered in a big way – and it’s a move that will resonate with Manchester United fans of a certain era.
Salford City have confirmed, via their website, that American International Group (AIG) – Manchester United’s shirt sponsor from 2006 to 2010 – has joined as their latest commercial partner and a minority equity investor.
The deal sees AIG become the first Fortune 500 company to back a League Two side in English Football League history.
While AIG’s logo won’t be replacing Fireball Whisky as front-of-shirt sponsor, its presence marks a significant moment for the Ammies.
It also rekindles memories for United supporters of the iconic 2007–09 home kit, famously worn by Wayne Rooney, Cristiano Ronaldo, Carlos Tevez and Paul Scholes during the club’s 2008 Champions League triumph.
Salford co-chair Declan Kelly hailed the deal as “another major step forward in the evolution of Salford City FC,” emphasising that the partnership will bring both financial strength and strategic expertise.
AIG, led by Chairman and CEO Peter Zaffino, is expected to support stadium upgrades and infrastructure improvements, while also aligning with the club’s long-term vision of becoming “the best small club in the world.”
For United fans, the sight of AIG back in Manchester – even in League Two – is a nostalgic nod to one of the club’s most successful eras, while for Salford, it could be the start of their most exciting chapter yet.
