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Manchester United have issued a response to two fan groups – The 1958 and Fan Coalition 58 – after concerns were raised over the increased ticket prices and treatment of supporters.
Towards the end of last year, fans were left furious after United’s decision to raise matchday ticket prices to £66 per game, with no concessions for children or pensioners.
The decision led to hundreds of United fans turning out to protest outside Old Trafford before the meeting with Everton on December 1.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe defended the move, arguing it did not make sense for a United ticket to cost less than one at Fulham. The INEOS billionaire also refused to rule out further ticket increases.
Fan groups wrote to United CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Fan Engagement Rick McGagh, to express their anger at the club.
United issued a response, admitting that they are at risk of breaching profit and sustainability (PSR) rules and that such moves are necessary to increase revenues.
In a letter addressed to the two fan groups, United outlined their delicate financial position.
“Dear The 1958 and Fan Coalition 58, Thank you for your letters received by Omar Berrada (CEO) and Rick McGagh (Director of Fan Engagement).”
“We agree that our fans are what makes Manchester United the greatest football club in the world. We greatly value and appreciate the loyalty and passion our fans have for the club, and the difference this makes to the team. We are determined to ensure that our current fans can continue to afford to attend games and that tickets are accessible for future generations of fans.”
“As previously communicated, we are however currently making a significant loss each year—totalling over £300m in the past 3 years. This is not sustainable and if we do not act now we are in danger of failing to comply with PSR/FFP requirements in future years and significantly impacting our ability to compete on the pitch.”
“We will get back to a cash-positive position as soon as possible and we will have to make some difficult choices to get there. That has included a significant reduction to our workforce as well as cuts across many areas of spend across our club. None of this has been easy, but we believe it is essential to restoring financial sustainability to the club which will underpin us as we work to get back to the top of English and European football.”
“We do not expect fans to make up all the current shortfall—but we do need to look at our ticketing strategy to ensure we are charging the right amount, and offering the right discounts, across our products for our fans.”
“We have committed to formal consultation with our Fans’ Advisory Board (FAB) about this who will challenge and help shape proposals which will then be decided upon by our ownership group. The FAB isn’t a decision-making body—it is advisory—but we are committed to collaboratively working together to help us come to the best outcome for fans and for the club.”
“Once we have an approved strategy and pricing policy for the 25/26 season we will communicate the details to all fans.”
“At this time, no decisions have been taken and the process of consultation is beginning. Until we have an outcome we will not be commenting further regarding what may or may not change for next season. However, we will share the views you have expressed in your letter to the FAB ahead of our discussions and can confirm we understand clearly your views.”
“Finally, we are always happy to listen to fan-led ideas about ways to grow revenue so please do share any thoughts you have on this.”
“Best wishes and thank you for sharing your views on this important matter.”
Over the past year, United have introduced various cost-cutting measures, with a recent report revealing that former players and current club ambassadors Bryan Robson, Andy Cole, and Denis Irwin will face significant cuts in their salaries starting next season.
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