Aeroflot’s chief executive Vitaly Saveliev, right, shakes with Manchester United group managing director, Richard Arnold

Manchester United has announced a five-year partnership with Aeroflot, with the Moscow-based international airline to become the club’s Official Carrier.

This partnership marks the club’s first commercial venture in Russia - an expanding market it is keen to explore further and where it has close to 18 million followers.

Announced at a ceremony at United’s Old Trafford stadium, Aeroflot’s chief executive Vitaly Saveliev and Manchester United’s group managing director, Richard Arnold, were joined by team manager, David Moyes, and the first team squad to celebrate the partnership.

As the Official Carrier of Manchester United, Aeroflot will provide the English Premier League champions with strategic advice on travel for the team and club representatives.

Aeroflot has 137 planes and one of the youngest fleets in Europe, with an average age of five to six years and in 2012, the group provided an outstanding travel experience to its 27.5 million passengers.

Each of its luxury aircraft features comfortable seating as well as award-winning on-board menus designed by Michelin-starred chefs.

As a member of SkyTeam global airline alliance, Aeroflot and its partners provide services to more than 1,000 destinations in 178 countries and offer the shortest route between Europe and Asia, via Moscow.

Manchester United group managing director, Richard Arnold commented: “Manchester United and Aeroflot share several core values and we are pleased to be welcoming such a high quality company as a sponsor. 

“Like the club, Aeroflot demonstrates team work, quality and a pride in its heritage, whilst still embracing new technologies and innovation.

“Aeroflot is celebrating its 90th birthday this year, but has already impressed us with its youthful energy. 

“We look forward to developing a meaningful partnership with them and reaching our fans in innovative and rewarding ways.”