Manchester United has announced a 5% increase in season ticket prices for the third consecutive year, a decision aimed at improving financial sustainability but one that has sparked disappointment among supporters. Despite a price freeze for under-16s, fan groups have criticized the club for ignoring calls for a broader freeze amid ongoing frustrations over management decisions.
ℹ️ We have today confirmed our season ticket prices for the 2025/26 men's team campaign.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 17, 2025
Fans React to Season Ticket Price Increases
The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) acknowledged that the increase is lower than anticipated but maintains that many fans remain disheartened by the club’s stance. “We fail to see any justification for the increase,” MUST stated, citing that other clubs have chosen to freeze ticket prices as a goodwill gesture amid economic pressures and the team’s inconsistent on-field performances.
Fan frustration has been evident, particularly during last week’s home game against Arsenal, where protests erupted over unpopular decisions made since Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Ineos group became co-owners.
New Ticketing Model and Minimum Usage Requirement
In addition to the price hike, Manchester United has introduced a game categorisation model for non-season ticket holders, meaning premium matches will carry a higher cost. Additionally, the minimum usage requirement for season ticket holders has been increased from 15 to 16 out of 19 Premier League home games, a move aimed at maximizing stadium attendance.
Key Changes for the 2025-26 Season:
- Season ticket prices increase by an average of 5%.
- Game categorisation model implemented, affecting non-season ticket holders.
- Minimum match attendance for season ticket holders raised to 16 out of 19 games.
- Senior discount policy revised, now tracking the state pension age of 66, with a reduced 25% discount.
- Fans behind the dugouts relocated, converting prime seating areas into hospitality sections.
- Ticket resale fees introduced, charging fans £10 if they return tickets within 14 days of a match.
- Car parking charges increased by 15%.
Club’s Financial Justification
United’s newly appointed chief executive, Omar Berrada, stated that the club “worked hard to come up with a pricing package that is fair and reasonable” while offsetting the rising operational costs. He acknowledged the frustration among fans but defended the increase, emphasizing the need for financial stability.
Ratcliffe, while distancing himself from direct pricing decisions, reaffirmed that ticket sales are a crucial revenue stream. “Ticket income is part of the overall income of the club, alongside merchandising and TV revenue. It directly impacts how much money we have to spend on new players and the squad,” he said.
Cost-Cutting Measures Amid Financial Struggles
The decision follows recent redundancies and cost-cutting measures at Old Trafford, including a mid-season price hike for certain tickets to £66, the removal of free staff lunches, and attempts to cut club losses, which surpassed £113 million last year. Ratcliffe has emphasized that such measures are necessary to prevent the club from “running out of money by Christmas.”
Future Implications for United Fans
While Manchester United remains one of the world’s most valuable football clubs, the continued price hikes, restructuring of seating arrangements, and additional fees indicate a shift toward a more corporate financial model. Supporters are left questioning whether the club’s efforts to boost revenue come at the expense of loyal fans who have supported the team through its highs and lows.
Potential Impact of the Pricing Strategy:
- Increased pressure on fans, particularly long-term season ticket holders.
- Growing dissatisfaction that may lead to intensified protests and boycotts.
- Changes in stadium atmosphere, with more seats allocated to premium hospitality.
- Possible future pricing trends, as fans brace for further increases.
The upcoming season will be pivotal in determining whether Manchester United’s financial strategies will successfully balance sustainability with fan satisfaction or if the growing discord will overshadow progress on the pitch.
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BREAKING: Man United to increase season ticket prices by 5% for next season, which is an average of £2.50 per game 🚨 pic.twitter.com/UJRSErPODn
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 17, 2025
Conclusion
Manchester United’s decision to raise ticket prices for a third consecutive year underscores its focus on financial sustainability, but it comes at the cost of increasing fan unrest. As supporters express growing discontent, the club must navigate the challenge of maintaining financial stability while preserving its loyal fan base. How these changes will impact the team’s long-term relationship with supporters remains to be seen.
