Manchester United have sacked head coach Ruben Amorim and Rio Ferdinand has revealed what’s being said in a WhatsApp chat.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand says the WhatsApp group chat with former reds stars is ‘popping off’ after the news of Ruben Amorim’s sacking. His former teammate Darren Fletcher will take caretaker charge of the club, with his first match in charge against Burnley later this week.

Matty Hewitt Football writer

11:20, 05 Jan 2026 Updated 11:43, 05 Jan 2026

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The rise of Football Foundations: More Than Just Charity

Football foundations are no longer simply charitable arms of clubs; they’ve evolved into powerful forces for social change, community development, and even player rehabilitation. But what exactly *are* these foundations, and why are they gaining so much prominence?

What are Football Foundations?

At their core, football foundations are the charitable arms of professional football clubs. They operate as separate entities, though closely linked to their parent clubs, and are dedicated to using the power of football to address social issues and improve the lives of people in their communities. Traditionally, this meant funding local youth teams or donating to existing charities. though, the scope has dramatically expanded.

A Shift in Focus: From Charity to Community Impact

The modern football foundation is far more proactive.They design and deliver their own programs, often tackling complex issues like:

• Education & Skills Development: Providing educational support, apprenticeships, and vocational training.
• Health & Wellbeing: Promoting physical and mental health through sports participation and targeted interventions.
• Social Inclusion: Working with marginalized groups, including refugees, people with disabilities, and those facing social exclusion.
• Community Cohesion: Building stronger communities through shared experiences and collaborative projects.
• Crime Prevention: Utilizing football-based programs to steer young people away from anti-social behavior.

This shift reflects a growing recognition that football clubs have a responsibility to contribute positively to the communities they serve. It’s also driven by the Premier League’s emphasis on social responsibility and the increasing demand for clubs to demonstrate their commitment to wider societal goals.

Examples of Leading Football Foundations

Several foundations stand out for their innovative and impactful work:

Manchester United Foundation

The Manchester United Foundation is one of the largest and most established, running a wide range of programs focused on education, health, and community development.They’ve been particularly triumphant in using football to engage young people and provide them with opportunities they might not otherwise have.Learn more

Liverpool Foundation

The Liverpool Foundation focuses heavily on education and tackling social exclusion. Their programs include school-based interventions, adult learning courses, and initiatives to support vulnerable individuals. Learn more

Chelsea Foundation

The Chelsea Foundation is renowned for its international development work, using football to promote peace and reconciliation in conflict zones. They also run extensive community programs in London,focusing on education,health,and social inclusion. Learn more

The Role of Player Involvement

Increasingly, players are actively involved in foundation work, lending their time, profile, and financial support. This not only raises awareness of the foundation’s activities but also provides positive role models for young people.Rio Ferdinand, such as, has established his own foundation focused on supporting disadvantaged youth. Learn more

Funding and Sustainability

Football foundations are funded through a variety of sources, including:

• Club Contributions: A percentage of club revenue is often allocated to the foundation.
• Sponsorships: Businesses sponsor foundation programs and events.
• Grants: Foundations apply for grants from government agencies and charitable organizations.
• Fundraising Events: Foundations organise fundraising events to generate income.

Ensuring long-term sustainability is a key challenge. Foundations are increasingly focusing on developing diversified funding streams and demonstrating the impact of their work to attract investment.

Key Takeaways

• Football foundations are evolving beyond customary charity work.
• They play a crucial role in addressing social issues and improving community wellbeing.
• Player involvement is increasing, amplifying the impact of foundation programs.
• Lasting funding is essential for long-term success.

FAQ

Q: Are football foundations just PR exercises for clubs?

A: While there’s undoubtedly a PR benefit, the majority of foundations are genuinely committed to making a positive impact. The scale and scope of their work demonstrate a genuine desire to contribute to society.

Q: How can I support a football foundation?

A: You can donate directly to the foundation, volunteer your time, or participate in