Manchester United fans are set to stage a protest against the club's decision to increase ticket prices. The demonstration will take place outside Old Trafford ahead of this weekend's match against Everton.
The club has announced that it will be scrapping discounted tickets for the remainder of the season, leading to a £66 increase in the price of a membership ticket. The Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST) has strongly condemned the move, warning that it could lead to significant price increases in the following seasons.
United fans will join supporters from Liverpool and Manchester City in backing the Football Supporters' Association (FSA) 'Stop Exploiting Loyalty' campaign.
The ticket price hike is seen as part of cost-cutting measures since the takeover by Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Previously, adult membership tickets cost £40, and those for under-16s were £25.
MUST said in a statement: "The club has taken this decision without any consultation with forums, fan advisory boards, or MUST. We were simply informed that there would be a 'urgently needed' price increase to address profitability and sustainability issues."
It added: "This could be the start of a significant price increase next season. Once the club gets used to charging parents and children £132, will they go back to the previous price levels next season?"
The 1958 supporters' group said in a statement: "With 19 Premier League clubs increasing ticket prices this season, FC58, Everton, Liverpool, and City fans will be flying FSA banners to send a message that we will not tolerate future season ticket price increases, the removal of discounts, and the commercial exploitation of fans who attend matches.
"With talk of rebuilding or redeveloping Old Trafford, we need to send a message to the club that we need to focus on keeping football affordable and looking after our loyal match-going fans. United have announced that all age categories of membership, under-16s, juniors, seniors, and disabled, will now pay a minimum of £66. This is the exploitation of loyal fans and the first step towards a dynamic pricing model."
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