Why Man City, Liverpool and Manchester United fans are joining forces in protest

Manchester City need a win to keep their title challenge alive, Liverpool could knock their closest rivals out of that title race, and Ruben Amorim is searching for his first win as Manchester United manager.

This weekend will be one where rivalries are tested, and the off-pitch battles between City and Liverpool, and United and Everton, will be as fierce as the ones on it. A true Manchester vs Liverpool Super Sunday.

But before both games on Sunday, fans of all four clubs will come together for a joint protest against increasing ticket prices across the Premier League.

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City fans have already stood alongside Southampton supporters before a recent home game in front of a banner reading 'Stop Exploiting Loyalty'. It is part of a wider campaign from the Football Supporters' Association which will step up this season. United fans also took part in the protest before their recent game at West Ham.

Ahead of City's must-win trip to Liverpool, fans of both sides from the 1894, MCFC Fans Foodbank Support and Spirit of Shankly groups will gather by the Kop to pose in front of the banner at 3pm.

MCFC Fans Foodbank Support spokesperson Nick Clarke said: “There’s been increasing animosity between City and Liverpool fans in recent years due to the rivalry on the pitch, so we’re incredibly proud to stand together on this important issue.

"Tribalism holds football fans back from addressing the real threats to the game we built - working-class fans are being priced out before our eyes. We can reverse this trend.”

Spirit of Shankly spokesman Gareth Roberts added: “It’s time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters. That passionate support that fuels the creation of flags and banners, of songs, and vocal backing, comes from generational commitment to the cause.

"That support is being threatened by the price of football – from tickets to TV subscriptions, even down to the prices of food and rink on the concourse. Raising prices when financial pressures on fans are at an all-time high is an insult. We’re proud to unite with fans from Manchester in this campaign to fight for fairness.”

Over at Old Trafford, the protest will take place at the Trinity Statue. An FC58 spokesperson said: “The rivalry between these four clubs has been, and is fierce. But we all go to games, love our club and want to keep football affordable for future generations whilst protecting heritage and communities. The only way we can achieve this is collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.“