Manchester United

[Cronky]

2 minutes ago, Froggy said:

 

There is every need. If it doesn't go down well with the squad that second highest paid player is being called out for being a lazy piece of shit who can't keep his social life in check, then you have a problem.

 

Thankfully, decent sources suggest that Amorim's approach with Rashford is being backed by the squad, and rightly so.

 

I don't think there's any need to a) go public or b) use sarcasm. 

 

The Fountain is also right in pointing out that if they're trying to offload the player, telling the world that he's got a bad attitude won't help.

 

 

[Abacus]

I thought I'd read Rashford had 'decided' to stay and fight for his place.

 

And by decided, I mean him and his brother realised nobody else would pay his wages. What a mess he's making of his career.

[Froggy]

Just now, Cronky said:

I don't think there's any need to a) go public or b) use sarcasm. 

 

The Fountain is also right in pointing out that if they're trying to offload the player, telling the world that he's got a bad attitude won't help.

 

The world knows.  The Rashford situation is very public, always has been. Amorim is getting questioned about Rashford every day, and saying "no comment", says everything anyway.

• He constantly went clubbing during the season, even after heavy losses to Man City
• He went on an all night bender in Belfast the night before training, and called in sick. He tried to bribe clubs in Belfast to stay open past 3am.
• He was late for team meetings and talks a minimum of two times under Ten Hag that we know of, and dropped both times.

Adding on to that, he's playing poorly and training poorly. His effort is almost zero.

 

Andy Mitten has reported that every single manager since Van Gaal has had issues with Rashford. Why do we need to protect him? Because his PR team did the save the kids campaign? He needs a huge wake up call. Unfortunately even Amorim's treatment doesn't seem to be getting through to him, which is what happens when your brother is your agent and you're surrounded by yes man.

 

He's doomed.

[Froggy]

 

An Open Letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe on ticket pricing & policies

 

We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.

 

We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too. 

Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.

 

Why This Is the Wrong Time

Fan Sentiment:

 

1. A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.
2. This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans' discretionary spend too.
3. And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.

 

Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:

1. Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.
2. A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.
3. Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.

Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:

Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.

Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.

You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.

 

The Value of Supportive Fans

How much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:

1. A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?) 
2. The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.
3. Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.

 

The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.

 

A Better Way Forward

Instead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach - work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.

 

Hold Fire for This Season:

Be bold - freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.

 

Rally the Fans and Club Together:

Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.

 

Consider Alternative Funding Options:

If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.

 

Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:

If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.

 

Preserve the Club’s Legacy:

Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.

 

The Business Case for a bold approach

This is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.

 

By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.

 

We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.

 

Yours sincerely,
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST)

 

Open letter from the supporters trust to Ratcliffe for anyone interested.

 

 

Edited Monday at 10:51 by Froggy

[Nucasol]

4 minutes ago, Froggy said:

  Reveal hidden contents

An Open Letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe on ticket pricing & policies

 

We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.

 

We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too. 

Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.

 

Why This Is the Wrong Time

Fan Sentiment:

 

1. A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.
2. This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans' discretionary spend too.
3. And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.

 

Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:

1. Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.
2. A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.
3. Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.

Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:

Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.

Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.

You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.

 

The Value of Supportive Fans

How much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:

1. A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?) 
2. The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.
3. Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.

 

The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.

 

A Better Way Forward

Instead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach - work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.

 

Hold Fire for This Season:

Be bold - freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.

 

Rally the Fans and Club Together:

Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.

 

Consider Alternative Funding Options:

If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.

 

Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:

If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.

 

Preserve the Club’s Legacy:

Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.

 

The Business Case for a bold approach

This is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.

 

By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.

 

We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.

 

Yours sincerely,
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST)

 

Open letter from the supporters trust to Ratcliffe for anyone interested.

 

 

 

Like that ball bag faced hyper capitalist is going to listen.

[bobbydazzla]

Brexit Jim: Can I have the mail, please?

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: Yeah, just one letter.

Brexit Jim: Dave, this is from Manchester United Supporters Trust.

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: I know.

Brexit Jim: How many times have I told you, there’s a special filing cabinet for things from Manchester United Supporters Trust.

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: You haven’t told me…

Brexit Jim: [Scrunches up and throws away the letter] It’s called the wastepaper basket !

 

[Dokko]

43 minutes ago, Froggy said:

  Reveal hidden contents

An Open Letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe on ticket pricing & policies

 

We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.

 

We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too. 

Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.

 

Why This Is the Wrong Time

Fan Sentiment:

 

1. A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.
2. This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans' discretionary spend too.
3. And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.

 

Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:

1. Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.
2. A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.
3. Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.

Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:

Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.

Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.

You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.

 

The Value of Supportive Fans

How much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:

1. A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?) 
2. The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.
3. Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.

 

The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.

 

A Better Way Forward

Instead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach - work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.

 

Hold Fire for This Season:

Be bold - freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.

 

Rally the Fans and Club Together:

Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.

 

Consider Alternative Funding Options:

If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.

 

Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:

If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.

 

Preserve the Club’s Legacy:

Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.

 

The Business Case for a bold approach

This is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.

 

By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.

 

We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.

 

Yours sincerely,
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST)

 

Open letter from the supporters trust to Ratcliffe for anyone interested.

 

 

 

 

Just pay the increase and be happy with it. It's what Rio would have done. 

[The Fountain]

4 hours ago, Froggy said:

 

There is every need. If it doesn't go down well with the squad that second highest paid player is being called out for being a lazy piece of shit who can't keep his social life in check, then you have a problem.

 

Thankfully, decent sources suggest that Amorim's approach with Rashford is being backed by the squad, and rightly so.

Not exactly a good selling point though. 

[loki679]

58 minutes ago, Dokko said:

 

Just pay the increase and be happy with it. It's what Rio would have done. 

 

Brexit Jim owns the club, he can do what he wants.  Stop moaning, you ingrates, he saved you from the Glazers and he's a billionaire donchaknow?

[Froggy]

18 minutes ago, The Fountain said:

Not exactly a good selling point though. 

 

That was my response to Cronky though. What Amorim is saying isn't news. Rashford's attitude isn't a secret. 

 

Someone will take the risk on him. Likely to be a loan anyway. 

[The Fountain]

12 minutes ago, Froggy said:

 

That was my response to Cronky though. What Amorim is saying isn't news. Rashford's attitude isn't a secret. 

 

Someone will take the risk on him. Likely to be a loan anyway. 

Any club should offer a few grand less a week than the goalkeeping coach  

[Chris_R]

Can't see anyone touching Rashford. Maybe on a loan where they pay £70k/week max, but anything more than that is crazy.

 

He'll see out every minute of that contract he's got.

[Ben]

2 hours ago, Froggy said:

  Reveal hidden contents

An Open Letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe on ticket pricing & policies

 

We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.

 

We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too. 

Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.

 

Why This Is the Wrong Time

Fan Sentiment:

 

1. A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.
2. This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans' discretionary spend too.
3. And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.

 

Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:

1. Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.
2. A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.
3. Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.

Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:

Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.

Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.

You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.

 

The Value of Supportive Fans

How much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:

1. A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?) 
2. The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.
3. Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.

 

The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.

 

A Better Way Forward

Instead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach - work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.

 

Hold Fire for This Season:

Be bold - freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.

 

Rally the Fans and Club Together:

Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.

 

Consider Alternative Funding Options:

If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.

 

Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:

If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.

 

Preserve the Club’s Legacy:

Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.

 

The Business Case for a bold approach

This is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.

 

By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.

 

We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.

 

Yours sincerely,
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST)

 

Open letter from the supporters trust to Ratcliffe for anyone interested.

 

 

 

 

Can Sir Jim not just use his own capital as he see's fit and put finance into an escrow account for the benefit of the club and once it gets spent on new players, the benefit of other clubs (hopefully in the UK) this would put less pressure on the fans to put more of their cash in. 

[El Prontonise]

35 minutes ago, The Fountain said:

Any club should offer a few grand less a week than the goalkeeping coach  

 

The goalkeeping coach comment was more tongue in cheek.

[mighty__mag]

 

[bobbydazzla]

12 minutes ago, mighty__mag said:

 

 

 

Anyone asked Ryan Giggs what he thinks about this ?

 

 

 

[Bimpy474]

17 minutes ago, mighty__mag said:

 

[Pata]

9 hours ago, Froggy said:

 

There is every need. If it doesn't go down well with the squad that second highest paid player is being called out for being a lazy piece of shit who can't keep his social life in check, then you have a problem.

 

Thankfully, decent sources suggest that Amorim's approach with Rashford is being backed by the squad, and rightly so.

 

I'm all for showing Rashford who's the boss but still feels a bit unnecessary. Comments like that won't raise his value and might put off some teams who could be interested in him if Man Utd pay a large piece of his ridiculous wages.

[Fak]

5 hours ago, bobbydazzla said:

Brexit Jim: Can I have the mail, please?

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: Yeah, just one letter.

Brexit Jim: Dave, this is from Manchester United Supporters Trust.

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: I know.

Brexit Jim: How many times have I told you, there’s a special filing cabinet for things from Manchester United Supporters Trust.

Baldy Dave Brailsford Who Lives In Monaco: You haven’t told me…

Brexit Jim: [Scrunches up and throws away the letter] It’s called the wastepaper basket !

 

That’s like some of the stuff that I write. 

[Conjo]

6 hours ago, Froggy said:

  Hide contents

An Open Letter to Sir Jim Ratcliffe on ticket pricing & policies

 

We write to you as representatives of the Manchester United supporter community, united in our love for the Club and driven by our collective desire to see Manchester United succeed on and off the pitch. As you consider forthcoming decisions on match ticketing policies and pricing, we urge you to pause and carefully reflect on the timing, potential consequences, and long-term impact of any major changes.

 

We recognise the club ultimately makes these decisions but our intention here is to offer honest counsel, some of which your employees may be reluctant to deliver to you, to help inform these decisions. We also want to put this on public record in the form of an open letter to ensure supporters understand our position too. 

Judging by your own public comments it seems you may have come to the conclusion that ticket pricing and policies are in need of a major review. However, we strongly believe that now is the worst possible time to implement significant changes. With the team struggling on the pitch and fan sentiment already at a low ebb, we all need to pull together to lift the team’s performance, not risk deepening divisions or creating further dissatisfaction.

 

Why This Is the Wrong Time

Fan Sentiment:

 

1. A price increase or significant ticketing policy changes would land very badly with fans at this time. Negative sentiment comes with financial costs, as discontent escalates into active protests and disillusionment.
2. This discontent could lead to outright rebellion, with consequences not just for matchday revenues but also for sponsor relations and the club’s global brand. Sponsors depend on a passionate and engaged fanbase; alienating supporters risks damaging these critical partnerships. Discontent also reduces fans' discretionary spend too.
3. And the potential to poison the well for stadium plans must be taken into consideration.

 

Impact on Atmosphere and Team Performance:

1. Fan dissatisfaction affects the matchday atmosphere, creating performance anxiety for players, rather than the vocal support needed to inspire them.
2. A passive or even hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford compounding struggling team performances could spiral into a catastrophic tailspin.
3. Should this happen, the financial losses from lost European qualification and a lower league position finish, would dwarf any potential gains from ticketing revenue increases.

Policy Mistakes Can Trigger Huge Reactions:

Pricing is the headline but changes to ticketing policies must be handled with even greater care. Major missteps without proper understanding of the unforeseen impacts could provoke severe backlash from fans, as history has shown.

Decisions made without proper consultation risk triggering disproportionate reactions and long-term damage to fan relations.

You particularly need to tread carefully around further restrictions or limitations on the ability of season ticket holders to pass on their tickets, a practice that is long established amongst supporters and nurtures our fan culture and community.

 

The Value of Supportive Fans

How much is good fan relations worth? Consider the following:

1. A warning signal that you are losing the crowd is the loss of the home advantage (does occasional heroic away performances interspersed with dismal home defeats and draws sound familiar?) 
2. The atmosphere generated by loyal and vocal fans drives the team forward, leading to better performances, higher league positions, and greater Premier League prize money.
3. Success in domestic and European competitions—fueled by fan support—has substantial financial rewards, not least European qualification for next season.

 

The opposite is of course true too, and poor atmosphere in the ground feeds poor performances. It is a symbiotic relationship both positively and negatively.

 

A Better Way Forward

Instead of making changes now, we urge you to adopt a more measured approach - work with the fans not against us, to rebuild Manchester United in the way you say you want to.

 

Hold Fire for This Season:

Be bold - freeze ticket prices for season ticket holders and members for next season. This would signal the club’s commitment to its supporters and create a rallying point for everyone to come together in support of the team for the crucial final months of the season.

 

Rally the Fans and Club Together:

Use this time to focus on maximizing performance on the pitch, securing European qualification through the Premier League or cup competitions, and strengthening fan support.

 

Consider Alternative Funding Options:

If additional funding is required for exceptional circumstances, explore another share issue for existing shareholders or allow fans (or other investors) the option to co-invest in their club on a fair and equal basis with the major shareholders. We know many fans would welcome this opportunity.

 

Consult Fans on Long-Term Changes:

If you believe ticket pricing and policies at Old Trafford require significant correction, initiate a proper consultation process with the supporters who will be impacted. This will ensure decisions are informed by fan perspectives and made with the best chance of securing unity rather than rebellion. You need to take fans with you, not create opposition.

 

Preserve the Club’s Legacy:

Resist the temptation to sell off the fruits of the youth academy for short-term fixes unless it aligns with a longer-term football strategy that honours Manchester United’s proud tradition of developing talent.

 

The Business Case for a bold approach

This is not simply about protecting supporters’ pockets. We understand the financial realities of running the club. However, there is a strong correlation between fan relations and both financial and on-field outcomes. Poorly timed changes to ticketing policies risk undermining the very atmosphere and support that drive success on the pitch, leading to far greater losses in revenue than any gains from ticket price increases or policy changes.

 

By freezing prices and avoiding major disruptive policy changes now, you have the opportunity to signal that you value the unique role of fans in Manchester United’s success. Together, we can build a stronger future for the club. The consequences of ignoring this are significant, but the benefits of getting it right are immeasurable.

 

We hope you will give this careful consideration and make the right decision for Manchester United’s future.

 

Yours sincerely,
The Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST)

 

Open letter from the supporters trust to Ratcliffe for anyone interested.

 

 

 

 

Beta cucks openly admitting they'll buy tickets no matter what, with the added bonus of potentially bringing some actual noise ...erm..."hostile" atmosphere in the stadium. Seems like a win win for Brexit Jim.

[KaKa]

27 minutes ago, Pata said:

 

I'm all for showing Rashford who's the boss but still feels a bit unnecessary. Comments like that won't raise his value and might put off some teams who could be interested in him if Man Utd pay a large piece of his ridiculous wages.

 

Can't believe he's being that open and forthright about a player they're trying to shift 

[David Edgar]

"The car is shit. The head gasket is properly fucked. I am looking to sell this car."

[andycap]

Could jimmy not just transfer his own funds to the club for the running of the club? Like staff pay etc instead of sacking every fucker and hiking ticket prices. 

 

 

 

Edited Monday at 18:21 by andycap

[astraguy]

Is rio "put Ur own money in" still a pundit? Haven't seen him around this season 

[El Prontonise]

4 minutes ago, astraguy said:

Is rio "put Ur own money in" still a pundit? Haven't seen him around this season 

 

Yes.