Man Utd Fans Unhappy Over Season Ticket Price Hike
Manchester United fans have expressed disappointment over the club’s decision to increase season ticket prices by 5% for the third consecutive year. The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) acknowledged that the rise was lower than expected but criticized the club for disregarding calls for a full price freeze. Since taking over as co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his Ineos group have implemented several cost-cutting measures to improve the club’s financial situation, leading to fan protests. The 2025-26 season will also see the introduction of a game categorization model, making premium matches more expensive for non-season ticket holders. Additionally, season ticket holders must now attend at least 16 of the 19 Premier League home games, up from 15.
Club chief executive Omar Berrada defended the changes, stating that price adjustments were necessary to cover rising operational costs. While the club opted to freeze prices for under-16s, MUST argued that the overall increase was unjustified, pointing out that other clubs had frozen ticket prices. The fan group insisted that keeping prices stable would have sent a strong message about unity during a difficult period for the club. In response, Berrada acknowledged concerns but maintained that a freeze was not feasible given Manchester United’s financial difficulties. The club, which posted losses exceeding £113 million last year, has also implemented other cost-saving measures, such as cutting free staff lunches and raising mid-season ticket prices.
The latest changes will result in an average increase of £2.50 per match for season ticket holders. Other adjustments include aligning senior discounts with the state pension age of 66, relocating fans behind the dugouts to make room for premium hospitality seating, and raising car parking charges by 15%. Fans who return tickets less than 14 days before a match will now be charged £10. Despite criticism, Ratcliffe maintained that ticket revenue is crucial to club finances and player investments. With rising discontent among supporters, the coming season could see increased tensions between fans and the club’s management as these changes take effect.
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