Manchester United Supporters Rally for Explosive Opening Day Revolt Against Jim Ratcliffe
The Manchester United fan organization The 1958 has declared their intention to stage a demonstration at Old Trafford on August 17th during the club's Premier League season opener versus Arsenal. The supporters' collective aims to voice their dissent against ownership figures Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.
Ratcliffe, who assumed control of the club's daily operations in February 2024, was described in the group's official statement as "an individual previously viewed by many, ourselves included, as a potential rescuer, a symbol of hope but now exposed as an accomplice in the continued deterioration of everything that defines our football club."
A representative from The 1958 declared: "We're entering a fresh campaign yet facing identical ownership concerns. Two decades under the Glazers represents two decades too many. The situation has reached its limit. We refuse to let some natural enthusiasm and a few impressive new acquisitions distract from the larger behind-the-scenes reality. Jim Ratcliffe made the decision to align himself with the Glazers and is assisting in maintaining their control."
The organization additionally criticized the club's Old Trafford Regeneration initiative.
"Make no mistake: this blueprint serves no purpose for us. It doesn't benefit the supporters who journey throughout the nation and across Europe. It doesn't serve those who have occupied the identical section at Old Trafford for generations. This exists solely for financial gain—nothing more. The weight of this avarice is being imposed upon lifelong supporters, who face rising costs, displacement, and neglect."
The initiative has allegedly reached an impasse due to disagreements regarding compensation for the property required to fulfill the club's ambitious plans.
Supporters demonstrated against Manchester United as recently as May 25th during the team's final match of the season against Aston Villa. Signs displayed during the demonstration featured messages including "We demand our club's return. Certain principles merit defending" and "Two decades of robbery and deception." Man United concluded in 15th position last campaign, falling in the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur and condemning one of England's most prestigious clubs to a following season without continental competition.
A common slogan among supporters opposing the Glazer ownership has been "Love United. Hate Glazers" or LUHG as an abbreviation.
"We demonstrate on behalf of every supporter who has been muted, removed, financially excluded, and overlooked," The 1958 stated in their announcement. "This transcends a single football club. This concerns the destiny of the sport. To our fellow supporters if the reality hasn't become apparent yet. Open your eyes."