Manchester United supporters’ group accuses club of hypocrisy over Old Trafford plans

A Manchester United supporters’ group has questioned how much benefit their members will see from new stadium plans, saying they have been “sidelined” by the club.

But ‘South Stand United’ says the plans are at odds with the club’s relocation of season ticket holders in the Sir Bobby Charlton stand next season.

The group says the club are “alienating” fans.

The taskforce, which includes Gary Neville and Lord Coe, will explore the feasibility of building a brand new stadium on the land adjacent to the current plot, as well as the regeneration of the Trafford Wharf area.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s co-owner, did not include any club officials on the taskforce as he wanted to underline how the plans are as much about the community as they are the club.

But the South Stand United group, which is taking legal advice over the matter, says that sentiment is out of line with season ticket holders being relocated to make way for 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.”