Man Utd fans unfurl giant banners at Old Trafford protesting Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s relocation plans

Manchester United fans are outraged after the club announced that several general admission seats in the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand will be reclassified as premium hospitality, forcing long-time season-ticket holders to relocate.

Manchester United Fan
Carl Recine/Getty Images

The unrest comes in the wake of Manchester United’s recent announcement that several general admission seats in the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand will be converted into premium hospitality sections. This reclassification has forced long-time fans — some of whom have held those seats for decades — to relocate. What’s enraged supporters most is how abruptly the news was delivered, with little to no prior communication. Affected season-ticket holders only learned of the change after receiving a short notice from the club on Monday.

The move has sparked widespread anger, particularly among the loyal community based in that area, who feel betrayed by a club they’ve supported for years. Their frustration was made loud and visible as they protested directly in front of the new CEO, Omar Berrada, and technical director Jason Wilcox. The harshest criticism was aimed at Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is now overseeing operations at the club.

Protest banners voiced powerful sentiments, with one reading: “Decades of love sold out,” another declaring: “Tourists over fans,” and a third asking: “Sir Jim, what has the club we love turned into? You know the price of everything and the value of nothing.”

The decision hits especially hard for older fans who have sat in that section since season tickets were introduced. Not only do these seats offer excellent views, but they’re also easily accessible for those with mobility issues — a factor that made their location both practical and irreplaceable.

Adding to the frustration, the club is also changing its pricing structure. From the 2025–26 season, general admission season ticket prices will go up by 5%, though tickets for under-16s will be frozen. The club is also tightening attendance rules, increasing the requirement from 15 to 16 of the 19 Premier League home games per season.

Manchester United performance and stats

Manchester United

Manager: Ruben Amorim
Top 3 Scorers
This season

Manchester United is currently 14th in the Premier League with 38 points.

In the last 33 games, it has won 10 times, drew 8 times, and lost 15 times. In its last match, Manchester United lost 0-1 against Wolverhampton Wanderers.​​

It has a negative goal difference after scoring 38 goals and conceding 46.​

Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against AFC Bournemouth on Sunday 27th of April in Bournemouth.​