A supporters’ group affiliated with Manchester United has raised concerns regarding the extent of benefits their members will receive from the club’s new stadium plans, alleging that they have been “neglected” by the club.
A task force has been established to investigate potential options for the future of Old Trafford.
However, ‘South Stand United’ argues that these plans contradict the club’s decision to relocate season ticket holders from the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand next season. The group accuses the club of “isolating” fans.
Comprising individuals such as Gary Neville and Lord Coe, the task force aims to assess the feasibility of constructing a new stadium on adjacent land and revitalizing the Trafford Wharf area.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, deliberately excluded club officials from the task force to emphasize that the plans prioritize the community as much as they do the club.
Nevertheless, the South Stand United group, which is seeking legal counsel on the matter, believes this sentiment clashes with the displacement of season ticket holders to accommodate players’ families and hospitality seats.
“South Stand United argues that the club’s current dealings with fans paint a markedly different picture of its purported community values,” said the organisation.
“The regeneration project is a glaring contradiction. On one hand, the club is parading its future vision for Old Trafford, boasting international games and a modernised stadium. On the other, it’s alienating the very fanbase that fills those seats.
“The taskforce’s ambition to deliver social and economic benefits to the region is lauded in principle but South Stand United questions whether these promises will extend to the fans who are currently feeling sidelined.”
But United argue the move is due to the club listening to supporters’ concerns.
“We understand the disappointment caused to season ticket-holders by seat locations,” they said.
“These happen for various reasons, including, next season, the moving of matchday hospitality seats into consolidated blocks to address fan concerns about them being dispersed around the stadium.
“No additional hospitality seats are being created at the expense of season ticket-holders – in fact hospitality seating will reduce by more than 500 next season.”