Fans hold up signs in the stands that read "Stop Exploiting Loyalty"
Fans hold up signs in the stands that read "Stop Exploiting Loyalty"
Connor O'Neill
What has been said?
Speaking about the reason for the protest, a spokesman for Manchester United fan group FC58 said: "The rivalry between these four clubs has been, and is, fierce. But we all go to games, love our club and want to keep football affordable for future generations while protecting heritage and communities.
"The only way we can achieve this is collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow."
United fans will be joined by some Everton fans outside of Old Trafford, with Dave Kelly from Everton Fans Supporting Foodbanks saying: “We are delighted to be standing shoulder with the Reds and Blues from Manchester and Merseyside.
"This isn't about the colour of the shirt or the badge upon the chest. It's about the future of the beautiful game, protecting and making it affordable for all fans."
MCFC Fans Foodbank Support spokesperson Nick Clarke also said: "There’s been increasing animosity between City and Liverpool fans in recent years due to the rivalry on the pitch, so we're incredibly proud to stand together on this important issue.
"Tribalism holds football fans back from addressing the real threats to the game we built - working-class fans are being priced out before our eyes. We can reverse this trend."
Gareth Roberts of Liverpool fan group Spirit of Shankly added: "It’s time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters.
"Raising prices when financial pressures on fans are at an all-time high is an insult. We’re proud to unite with fans from Manchester in this campaign to fight for fairness."
Connor O'Neill
Why are fans protesting?
The protest is to try and highlight the 'exploitation of loyal supporters' in football and to highlight the wider issue of rising prices for the match-going fan. It comes after United have started to remove concession prices for certain age groups, as well as raising ticket prices to £66 per game.
A similar protest took place before United’s game against West Ham back in October. While City fans previously sent the message ahead of the home clash against Southampton.