Sir Jim Ratcliffe was confronted by a group of angry Manchester United fans after the team’s 1-0 victory over Fulham, with supporters accusing him of being “worse than the Glazers” regarding the club’s ticket prices.
Despite United securing all three points with Lisandro Martinez’s deflected strike in the 78th minute, tensions were high off the pitch, primarily due to the rising cost of attending matches at Old Trafford.
The club’s cheapest match ticket is now priced at £66, the most expensive in the Premier League. Only Chelsea, Everton, and Fulham charge £50 or more for their lowest-priced tickets.
This price hike has become a flashpoint for frustration, especially as the club’s fortunes on the pitch have waned since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
A viral video shows Ratcliffe, co-owner of United, being ambushed by fans as he left Craven Cottage in a car. Fans angrily criticized the cost of attending matches, with one remarking, “66 fing quid?! Are you taking the p? We’re northerners!”
Paul Scholes, a Manchester United legend, also weighed in on the issue, calling the price increase “ridiculous” and accusing Ratcliffe of not caring about fans.
He criticized the owners for failing to improve the club both on and off the pitch, noting that United’s season has been lackluster and ticket prices have only risen.
In addition to the ticket controversy, Ratcliffe has faced criticism for cutting costs in other areas, including reducing staff bonuses and slashing jobs.
Fans have expressed concerns that these actions reflect a broader disregard for the supporters, with some banners reading “Stop exploiting loyalty” visible at Old Trafford.
Despite the backlash, Ratcliffe’s stance on ticket pricing remains unchanged, adding fuel to the ongoing discontent.