New Delhi: Manchester United supporters have raised their concerns about rising ticket prices in an open letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Ratcliffe, whose INEOS group holds a minority stake in the club and oversees football operations, faced vocal protests from travelling fans during United’s recent victory at Fulham. The fans criticised mid-season ticket price increases, which they claim worsen the already strained relationship between the club and its supporters.
The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) has labelled this a critical moment for change. They believe the club needs a “major reset” in how it engages with its fans, especially given the team’s recent underwhelming performances. United finished eighth in the Premier League last season, their worst finish since 1990, and currently sit in 12th place after 23 matches.
Fans slam ticket hikes amid poor performances
MUST argues that increasing ticket prices at this time risks alienating fans further, affecting the atmosphere at Old Trafford, and even impacting the team’s performance. They called on Ratcliffe and the club’s leadership to prioritise on-pitch success over revenue-driven policies. In their letter, the group expressed fears that ignoring fans’ voices could deepen divisions and worsen the ongoing financial crisis.
The letter read: “Now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling and fan sentiment at a low, we need unity to lift performances, not deepen dissatisfaction.”
MUST emphasised that freezing ticket prices would show respect for supporters’ role in the club’s success. They argued that fans should be seen as partners in rebuilding United’s future rather than sources of revenue.
The rising ticket prices come as Manchester United grapples with financial difficulties. The club admitted last week that it risks breaching the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules due to repeated losses. Ratcliffe, keen to address these issues, has focused on increasing revenues, including ticket prices.
In November, MUST also protested against a policy that raised the price of remaining tickets at Old Trafford to £66 each. The group argued that decisions like these disregard fans’ loyalty and make attending games less affordable.
MUST concluded their letter by urging Ratcliffe to rethink the club’s priorities. They stressed the importance of preserving fan relationships and creating a positive atmosphere to drive Manchester United back to success.
Manchester United fans have criticised mid-season ticket price hikes in an open letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, urging him to freeze prices and prioritise on-pitch success amid growing financial and performance struggles. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
