Manchester United supporters are set to stage another protest on Sunday as Arsenal visits Old Trafford. Fans have been urged to dress in black, symbolizing their frustration with both on-field struggles and the club’s ownership.
United’s latest disappointment came in the FA Cup, where they crashed out in the fifth round after a penalty shootout defeat to Fulham. However, the anger goes beyond results. The club’s financial troubles, rumored redundancies, and a disconnect between INEOS backers and supporters have fueled growing unrest.
Fan group The 1958, known for past protests against the Glazer family, is now directing its frustration toward Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his leadership team. “The club is dying before our eyes,” a spokesperson said. “This is the biggest crisis since the Munich disaster. Financial ruin is looming, and we refuse to stand by.”
The rising cost of tickets has only intensified discontent. Last month, United reported a 12% drop in commercial revenue, leading to an increase in Premier League ticket prices to £66. Former United captain Gary Neville has been vocal about the financial mismanagement, warning of a “car crash” scenario.
The issues extend beyond ticket prices. Cost-cutting measures have drawn backlash, including removing food options for staff and slashing benefits for ex-players. Neville also criticized the club’s botched pursuit of Dan Ashworth, who was sacked after just three months despite an eight-month chase, costing United £4m.
Co-host Ian Wright echoed Neville’s concerns, likening the Glazer ownership to a scam. “They took over the biggest club in the country and bled it dry,” Wright said. “Something has to change.
The 1958 group has vowed to escalate protests, starting with Sunday’s march to the stadium at 3 PM. “This club means more to us than just a seat in the stands,” they declared. As frustration mounts, the battle between United’s fans and its owners is far from over.