Fans from Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United will unite to protest against rising ticket prices this weekend.
In support of a football Supporters Association (FSA) campaign, Manchester United fans plan to join their Everton counterparts in holding a banner saying “Stop Exploiting Loyalty” before their teams face off on Sunday (1:30pm GMT). playing at Old Trafford.
Liverpool host Manchester City at 4pm GMT on the same day and fans of both clubs will also hang banners with a similar message at the game between their clubs.
Manchester United was blamed to exploit fans after they decided mid-season to raise matchday ticket prices to £66 per game, with no concessions for children or pensioners.
“The rivalry between these four clubs was 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,” said a spokesperson for Manchester United fan group FC58.
“The only way to achieve this is through collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.”
Dave Kelly. from Everton fans supporting food banks. said: “We are delighted to be standing alongside the Reds and Blues from Manchester and Merseyside.”
“This is not about the color of the jersey or the badge on the chest. It’s about the future of the beautiful game, protecting it and making it affordable for all fans.”
Liverpool has increased ticket prices by 2% for this season, while City has increased the prices for season tickets, external by an average of 5%.
“It is time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success rests on the unwavering loyalty of their fans,” said Gareth Roberts, spokesman for Liverpool fans group Spirit of Shankly.
“Increasing prices when the financial pressure on fans is at an all-time high is an insult. We are proud to join forces with Manchester fans in this campaign to fight for fairness.”
Nick Clarke, spokesman for MCFC Fans Foodbank Support, said: “In recent years there has been increasing hostility between City and Liverpool fans due to on-field rivalry. So we are incredibly proud to stand together on this important issue.”
“Tribalism prevents football fans from dealing with the real threats to the sport we created – working-class fans are being exploited before our eyes. We can reverse this trend.”
