Fans threaten Glazer's price rises plan
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Malcolm Glazer's control of Manchester United could be weakened by fans disrupting his fragile financial plan, according to Shareholders United. Increased ticket prices are reportedly planned to compensate for huge loans needed for Glazer's takeover.
The American tycoon is expected to take United off the stockmarket and the fans' group hope he will then be forced to float the club again if payments cannot be met. Shareholders United believe supporters can affect areas of revenue. Spokesman Oliver Houston said: "This is just a business plan, it doesn't mean it will work. We will now see more people refusing to renew season tickets, more refusing to buy merchandise.
"If we prise away a million or a few million it could spell disaster. His attempts can be taken down one brick by one brick. One slip-up and it will be in the hands of the banks, not Glazer's decision. Other people will just be out-priced for a ticket, while not a penny spent will improve the club. It will all go to Glazer, who is treading water."
Houston believes increases in ticket prices would vindicate SU's fears: "Proposing a 61 per cent increase in match day sales, a 13 per cent rise in media sales, and 76 per cent increase in sales of merchandise and other commercial activities - there's more chance of flying on a space shuttle to the moon.
"[Chief executive] David Gill said the takeover would be damaging, and that is why [chairman] Sir Roy Gardner stood down from the board."
United fans are now planning more organised protests for next season, with an alternative kit being manufactured in the original colours of founders Newton Heath.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments