the minimum standard for the yanks, and for the previous owners is EUROPEAN qualification, without that i think the club looses much revenue. As long as Rafa keeps qulifying for europe, he yanks will have a guaranteed revenue from UEFA.
If we fail to qulify, yikkes then we in deep [oops]. I dont think there is any club in england that has a minimum standard of The title, becasue that is a impossible target.
As long as we play in europe every year, the value remains good, and the guaranteed income keeps the yanks happy.
Now imagine if we win the cham League, and the premiership? That would be a money spinner for teh yanks, would send this club on a upswing. But will they part with the money? i dont think so.