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 Manchester United Faces Backlash Over Season Ticket Price Hike

Manchester United has announced a five percent increase in season ticket prices for the 2025/26 season, despite opposition from fan groups who called for a price freeze. While ticket costs for under-16s remain unchanged, the club is introducing a new game categorization system for non-season ticket holders, allowing different pricing for high-profile matches.

Fan Protests Against Price Hike

In recent months, Manchester United supporters have staged frequent protests at Old Trafford, especially following the club’s decision in November to remove concessions for children and seniors. Remaining tickets for this season are priced at £66 ($85), a move that has sparked widespread criticism. The Fan Advisory Board (FAB) lobbied for a price freeze, but the club rejected the proposal.

Financial Challenges Behind the Decision

United’s season ticket prices have now increased by five percent for three consecutive seasons, following an 11-year freeze. Co-owner Jim Ratcliffe revealed in recent interviews that the club would have faced a financial crisis by the end of last year without cost-cutting measures and increased ticket prices. Over the past seven years, United has accumulated losses of £410 million due to costly transfer mistakes and managerial changes.

Poor Performance in the Premier League

Manchester United currently sits in 13th place in the Premier League and is relying on a Europa League victory to secure silverware this season. The club’s struggles on the pitch have only intensified fan frustrations over rising ticket prices.

Fan Reactions and Comparisons with Other Clubs

Liverpool, the current Premier League leaders, recently announced that they would freeze ticket prices for the next season. In contrast, Manchester United’s decision to raise prices has not been well received. The Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST) criticized the move, stating, “For months, we have urged the club to see the bigger picture and freeze ticket prices. Other clubs have already done so, and it would have sent a strong message about unity in difficult times.”

Future of Old Trafford

In addition to the ticket price hike, United has announced plans to leave Old Trafford and build a new 100,000-seater stadium at an estimated cost of £2 billion. The decision to relocate has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some welcoming the upgrade while others remain nostalgic about Old Trafford’s legacy.