'Simply unacceptable' - Manchester United criticised over latest ticket decision
Manchester United have come under fire from Leicester City supporters groups for their ticket price policy for next month's FA Cup fourth-round clash at Old Trafford between the two teams.
The tie, which is set to see Ruud van Nistelrooy return to Old Trafford with the Foxes, has been moved to Friday night for TV coverage, and United's decision to charge more than £50 for tickets has been criticised by Leicester City fans, who have already been to United for a Premier League and Carabao Cup tie this season.
Adult tickets in the away end are priced between £51 and £61, while the cheapest seniors ticket is £40.75 and an under-18s ticket is £30.50. While away tickets for Premier League games are capped at £30, there are no rules governing FA Cup pricing and United have decided to cash in.
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Steve Moulds, co-chair of Foxes Trust, said: “FA Cup games provide the opportunity for fans who are unable to get tickets for league matches to actually go and watch the team they support.
“These games provide one of the few opportunities for younger fans to be able to afford tickets. This spreads the love of the game and invites new and future generations to experience the thrill that is live football.
“How can pricing regular or new fans out of the game be any good for its future?”
It is the latest in a series of criticisms United are facing for their ticket policy. They are in the spotlight once again for allowing hundreds of Rangers fans to buy tickets in the home end for Thursday night's Europa League tie, while United fans have been told their ticket prices are likely to rise.
The Leicester City Supporters Club believe some Foxes fans are refusing to travel to the FA Cup tie because of the prices they are being charged.
“The high ticket prices have led some fans to consider a boycott,” said Amy Ginnetta, committee member at the Leicester City Supporters Club. “And many have already decided not to make the trip. It’s disappointing because football should be accessible to everyone, yet many fans are being priced out.
“We know some supporters will still pay these prices due to their unwavering loyalty and the social experience that comes with supporting our team.
“Football fans travel across the country week after week, bearing significant financial costs and personal sacrifices. Their unwavering commitment is what brings life to stadiums, creating the electric atmosphere that defines football. Without it, we miss those unforgettable moments when goals are scored or when the final whistle blows.
“For those who will be traveling, they’ve requested to bring the FSA’s ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’ banner as a form of protest. Charging over £50 for a 4th round FA Cup game on a Friday night, especially one that’s televised, is simply unacceptable. If clubs persist with these exorbitant prices, we risk losing the very essence of what makes football passionate and special.”