Fans of Manchester United and Liverpool are uniting in protest against increasing ticket prices as their teams prepare to face off in the Premier League on January 5.
A report suggests that supporters from both sides are organizing demonstrations at Anfield, building on previous protests against ticket hikes this month.
Fan Discontent Over Ticket Price Hikes
The protests come amid growing frustration over Manchester United’s recent decision to raise the price of tickets for members to £66, alongside the removal of discounts for children and pensioners.
United fans had already expressed their discontent with a banner reading “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” during their Premier League match with Everton on December 1.
Everton supporters joined in, voicing their concerns about the price increase as well.
In a similar vein, Liverpool supporters are planning to increase ticket prices by two percent next season, adding to the tension between the clubs and their fanbases.
Joint Protest Efforts
According to the Telegraph, representatives from the Liverpool fan group Spirit of Shankly (SOS) and Manchester United’s FC58 have been in talks to organize a unified protest before their teams meet next month.
Fans plan to display another “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” banner and gather around Anfield for a pre-match demonstration, signaling their collective frustration over the rising costs.
Steve Crompton, a representative from FC58, emphasized the importance of fans joining forces despite the intense rivalry.
He pointed out that the growing atmosphere of exclusion for ordinary fans due to price hikes is a serious concern.
“The atmosphere is disappearing because ordinary match-going fans are dropping by the wayside,” Crompton said, describing the situation as “akin to being in an abusive relationship.”
A Shared Struggle Across Football
Gareth Roberts, from SOS, added that despite the fierce rivalry between Manchester United and Liverpool, this protest goes beyond football.
Both fan groups share a common struggle, shaped by social and economic challenges in their cities.
He noted that fans in areas close to stadiums like Anfield and Old Trafford should be able to afford tickets to watch their teams, but this is becoming increasingly difficult.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Controversial Comments
The issue has been further complicated by comments from Manchester United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
He sparked further alarm among fans by suggesting that it didn’t make sense for a ticket to Old Trafford to cost less than one at Fulham.
Ratcliffe acknowledged the challenges, stating, “We need to find a balance,” but also emphasized that the issue was about optimizing ticketing, with only a small percentage of tickets affected by the price increase.
United’s officials maintain that only a small portion of fans will be affected by the rise, as the majority of tickets for the remaining matches are already sold.
They have also assured fans that no decisions have been made for ticket prices next season.
What’s Next for Fans and Clubs?
As the protest gains momentum, the question remains: what will be the long-term impact on ticket pricing policies and fan engagement?
With fans from both Manchester United and Liverpool joining forces, this protest could signal a broader shift in how clubs approach ticket pricing and their relationship with loyal supporters.
The outcome of this growing movement remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the conversation surrounding affordable access to football is far from over.
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