Manchester United Defend 'Offensive' Ticket Price Increase Amid Fan Backlash

Manchester United have officially confirmed an increase in season ticket prices for the 2025/26 campaign, a decision that has sparked frustration among supporters. The club justifies the move as part of its broader financial strategy to raise revenue and mitigate rising operational costs. However, the announcement has been met with sharp criticism, particularly from the Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST), who have labeled the increase "offensive" given the club’s current struggles both on and off the pitch.

Season Ticket Price Increase: What Fans Need to Know

United’s price hike will affect all supporters except junior fans aged 16 and under, with season ticket costs set to rise by 5%. The increase aligns with similar moves by Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool, yet remains a contentious issue given Manchester United’s recent financial and sporting difficulties.

The club’s Fans' Advisory Board (FAB) was engaged in discussions before the decision was finalized, with strong advocacy for a price freeze—similar to what Tottenham Hotspur has implemented. However, despite their efforts, the club proceeded with the increase, albeit at a lower percentage than initially planned.

Initial Plans for a 20% Hike & Fan Pushback

Manchester United initially considered a much steeper 20% increase in ticket prices. Following discussions with the FAB, the club settled on a significantly reduced 5% rise. Chief executive Omar Berrada addressed the decision, acknowledging fan concerns while emphasizing the club’s financial responsibilities.

Omar Berrada stated: "We understand that any price rise is unwelcome, especially during a period of underperformance on the pitch, and we listened carefully to the strong arguments put forward by the FAB in favor of a freeze. However, the club has decided that it would not be right to keep prices unchanged while costs rise and the club continues to face financial issues."

Berrada further expressed gratitude to the club’s devoted supporters, particularly season ticket holders, and reassured fans that efforts were made to minimize the increase.

"We appreciate the loyal and patient support of our fans and particularly our season-ticket holders who represent the core of our match-going support base. We have worked hard to come up with a pricing package that is fair and reasonable. We have kept the increase to the lowest possible level and protected our youngest season-ticket holders from any rises while ensuring the club remains financially strong enough to invest in improving the team."

Manchester United Supporters' Trust Reacts

Despite the club’s justification, the decision has been met with outrage by the Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST), who released a statement condemning the price hike as unjustified given the ownership’s past financial mismanagement.

MUST stated: "We acknowledge that Jim Ratcliffe has put money into the club while also meeting fans. But while he is right that the club is in terrible shape on and off the pitch, the idea that United must get its financial house in order essentially overnight is a choice."

"Our owners—and here we are looking squarely at the Glazers—put us in this position, and it is they who should be putting their hands in their pockets to help get us out of it. The idea that fans should pay for the Glazers' ownership and errors on top of the thousands that we already pay to loyally follow the team is frankly offensive."

New Premium Hospitality Seating Adds to Controversy

In an additional effort to boost revenue, Manchester United have reportedly decided to repurpose areas near the home and away benches into premium hospitality seating. This change means that existing season ticket holders in those sections will be relocated, further fueling frustrations among the fanbase.

For many supporters, the cumulative effect of these financial decisions raises concerns about the club’s priorities. While financial sustainability is necessary, fans argue that increasing ticket prices amid on-pitch struggles and ongoing frustrations with ownership is an insensitive approach.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Fans

The season ticket price rise is likely to remain a contentious issue, especially as Manchester United continues to navigate sporting and financial challenges. The response from both the club and supporters suggests that tensions between ownership and fans remain high, with financial decisions playing a crucial role in shaping the club's future relationship with its supporters.

As discussions continue, many will be watching to see whether the club makes further adjustments to pricing strategies in the coming seasons—or if fan discontent will escalate into stronger protests.