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Manchester United fans are preparing a large-scale protest against the club’s ownership, with supporters urged to wear black for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Arsenal at Old Trafford. The demonstration, led by influential fan group The 1958, aims to highlight dissatisfaction with the Glazer family’s handling of the club’s finances and overall direction.
The protest will include a march beginning at 3:15 p.m. from the Tollgate pub, with organizers hoping for one of the biggest demonstrations in the club’s history. The 1958 group released a statement calling for unity among fans to oppose what they describe as the club’s financial decline and disregard for fan culture.
Mounting Financial Concerns and Poor Performances
Manchester United’s financial difficulties have been well-documented, with the club recording significant losses over recent seasons. In their latest financial report, United posted a net loss of $144 million for the 2023-24 season. Meanwhile, the club has also faced increased financial strain due to costly managerial changes, including a reported £14.5 million ($18.2m) in compensation paid to Erik ten Hag and his coaching staff following their dismissal.
Additionally, the club’s debt interest payments over the last six months amounted to £18.8 million, further fueling frustrations among supporters. Cost-cutting measures have been introduced since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group acquired a 27.7% stake in the club in February last year, including redundancies and controversial ticket price hikes that have sparked backlash.
Fan Outrage Over Club's Decline
Steve Crompton, a spokesperson for The 1958, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating: “The club is slowly dying before our eyes, on and off the pitch, and the blame lies squarely at the current ownership model. Manchester United is facing financial armageddon, and debt is leading us to ruin.”
The protest follows a separate demonstration last weekend during United’s FA Cup match against Fulham, where fans participated in the Football Supporters’ Association’s “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” campaign over ticket pricing.
A Season to Forget
Manchester United’s on-field struggles have only added to fan frustrations. The club suffered a humiliating FA Cup exit to Fulham on penalties, compounding what has been a disastrous Premier League season. Currently languishing in mid-table, United’s hopes for European qualification are dwindling, and failure to secure a Champions League spot could have further financial consequences.
Despite the protests, club executives have insisted they are committed to revitalizing Manchester United. Recently appointed chief executive Omar Berrada stated, “We have a responsibility to put Manchester United in the strongest position to win across all levels. A wide-ranging series of measures is being introduced to transform and renew the club.”
With tensions running high, Sunday’s protest is expected to be a significant moment in the ongoing struggle between Manchester United’s passionate supporters and its controversial owners.
