Ex-Manchester United star forced to sell medals after shock life change

A former Manchester United and England international has been forced to part ways with some of his most treasured memorabilia following a dramatic change in life circumstances.

The midfielder, one a regular at the highest level of English football, enjoyed a career that included major honours and international recognition during the late 1980s and early 1990s.

However, life after football has taken a very different path.

According to the Mirror, the former United player has worked as a postman in recent years, a stark contrast to his time competing at Old Trafford and on the international stage.

The situation only becomes clearer further into his story.

Neil Webb is the player in question.

The ex-Manchester United midfielder, who earned 26 caps for England and featured at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, has had to sell key items from his career, including medals and international memorabilia, in order to support his retirement.

Among the items sold were his FA Cup winner’s medal, League Cup medal, and even pieces from his England career, highlighting the financial realities faced by players from previous generations.

Webb himself admitted the decision was driven by necessity rather than desire, with items having been kept for years before being put up for sale.

His story reflects a wider contrast within football.

Modern players now earn significant weekly wages, while those from earlier eras often needed to continue working long after retirement.

At the end of 2025, it also emerged that former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe launched a £1m legal claim against the club over injury treatment, further highlighting the long-term challenges some players face beyond their playing day.

Elsewhere, we recently reported how Cristiano Ronaldo’s business venture was acquired by Herbalife, underlining the modern trend of players building financial security off the pitch during their careers.

Despite the difficulties, Neil Webb has spoken positively about his career, having played under some of the most respective managers in English football.

From a broader perspective, his journey serves as a reminder of how dramatically the financial landscape of football has changed.

Even for those who once played at the very top.