Rival Football Club Supporters to Protest Ticket Price Increases

Supporters from multiple clubs have previously voiced objections regarding Premier League ticket costs. This weekend, fans representing Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United are set to unite in a demonstration against increasing ticket prices. Backing a campaign by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA), Manchester United supporters, alongside those from Everton, intend to display a ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’ banner prior to their teams’ match at Old Trafford on Sunday at 13:30 GMT. Later that day, at 16:00, Liverpool will host Manchester City, where fans of both clubs are also expected to exhibit banners conveying a comparable sentiment. Manchester United faces accusations of exploiting its fanbase following its mid-season choice to elevate matchday ticket prices to £66 per game, without offering any reduced rates for children or pensioners. A spokesperson for the Manchester United fan group FC58 stated: “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 while protecting heritage and communities.” The spokesperson added: “The only way we can achieve this is collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.” Dave Kelly, representing Everton Fans Supporting Foodbanks, commented: “We are delighted to be standing shoulder with the Reds and Blues from Manchester and Merseyside.” He further elaborated: “This isn’t about the colour of the shirt or the badge upon the chest. It’s about the future of the beautiful game, protecting and making it affordable for all fans.” For the current season, Liverpool has implemented a 2% increase in ticket prices, while Manchester City elevated its season ticket prices by an average of 5%. Gareth Roberts, spokesman for the Liverpool fan group Spirit of Shankly, stated: “It’s time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters.” He continued: “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.” Nick Clarke, a spokesperson for MCFC Fans Foodbank Support, remarked: “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.” Clarke added: “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.”