Manchester United Fan Groups Unite for Glazer Ownership Protest
FC United of Manchester and The 1958, a supporters’ collective of Manchester United, are joining forces this Saturday to stage a unified demonstration against 20 years of Glazer family ownership at Manchester United. Dubbed “United United Day,” this action represents the first formal collaboration between FC United and a Manchester United fan organization since FC United’s inception in 2005. The formation of FC United previously generated some division among the fanbase.
Protest Details and Background
The demonstration will occur at FC United’s home match against Stockton, a seventh-tier fixture, strategically scheduled on a weekend when Manchester United are without a game. Supporters plan to assemble behind one of the goalposts prior to kickoff to express their discontent with the Glazer family’s control of the club. This control began with Malcolm Glazer’s leveraged acquisition, a move that burdened the club with approximately £500 million in debt. This financial strain was a key factor leading to the breakaway and subsequent formation of FC United by disillusioned fans. FC United officially came into existence on May 18, 2005, with its founding meeting held at an Indian restaurant in Rusholme.
Following Malcolm Glazer’s death in May 2014, his six children inherited ownership and remain the majority stakeholders. Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently acquired a 28.94% share, making him the largest individual shareholder. Manchester United’s current debt stands at around £730 million. Furthermore, the club reportedly owes an additional £300 million in transfer fees and has accumulated losses of £300 million over the past three years.
Fan Groups Voice Concerns
FC United released a statement saying: “Together, we intend to make our voices resonate: enough is enough. FC United emerged from the anger and frustration felt by Manchester United supporters when the Glazers assumed control. Since 2005, we have consistently refrained from dictating actions to United fans – we have simply presented ourselves as an alternative, a choice.”
The statement continued: “The prominent demonstrations witnessed at Old Trafford in recent years have been spearheaded by The 1958 group. Recently, in their efforts to unify the broader Manchester United supporter base, The 1958 reached out to us, and we have since engaged in meetings.”
Call for Unity
The 1958 group communicated via X (formerly Twitter): “For too long, our fanbase has experienced division. The time has come to unite everyone under a single, cohesive cause. Join us, bring your banners, flags, and voices.”