Manchester United fans are planning a protest ahead of Sunday's derby match against Manchester City, citing anger over the club's clampdown on ticket touts. The protest group, known as The 1958, alleges that the club has targeted innocent supporters and issued bans without presenting clear evidence, stating that "a line has been crossed."
The group has called on fans to participate in a peaceful demonstration, scheduled to gather outside The Bishop Blaize pub near Old Trafford at 3 p.m. on Sunday. The statement from The 1958 urges various Manchester United supporter groups, fan forum representatives, and independent organizations to unite.
"All Reds. All groups. One voice. Show the evidence. Lift the bans," the statement declared. The group emphasized that supporters are facing significant sanctions, including potential bans from attending matches, without being clearly informed of the accusations or presented with the evidence used to justify these actions.
"We believe nobody should face such action without being told clearly what they are accused of and being shown the evidence used to justify it," the statement read. The 1958 group asserts that this issue extends beyond individual supporters or specific groups, warning that the club's approach should concern all match-going fans.
The group also highlighted the long-standing loyalty of fans, stating, "For generations, match-going Reds have given their time, money and loyalty to Manchester United, home and away. That loyalty deserves to be treated with respect." They are calling for transparency, demanding that if clear and substantive evidence of serious wrongdoing or organized ticket touting exists, it should be presented.
"No loyal supporter should be treated as guilty without being given a fair opportunity to understand and challenge the case against them," The 1958 concluded. The protest aims to address how the club interacts with its supporters and advocate for fairness in its disciplinary actions.