Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues to look for ways to increase revenue in Manchester
Sir Jim Ratcliffe continues to look for ways to increase revenue in Manchester
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has held talks with Manchester United fans over ticket price rises with supporters making it clear his strategy will only alienate the fanbase.
The Ineos chief has stressed the need to increase revenue streams but those who attend Old Trafford have cautioned him against using them to fuel it. They held a meeting on Thursday at Carrington where the 72-year-old spoke with the Fan Advisory Board to hear supporters' views.
United are weighing up how much to charge for season tickets next season. This comes after the controversial decision to increase the ticket prices for the current campaign and axe concession and senior admissions.
The Daily Mail reports that while no concrete decisions were made during the discussions, fan representatives were clear in their view that Ratcliffe should tread carefully over putting up ticket prices.
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The Fan Advisory Board were keen to underline how pushing through major decisions on tickets without consultation - as they did with the rise to £66 - would be counter-productive and only alienate the fanbase. A protest was held before a home game this year as fans voiced their concern.
During United's win at Fulham last month, the away end voiced their anger at Ratcliffe, calling him a **** and comparing him to the Glazer family, who have been public enemy No 1 for years.
It is understood that Ratcliffe took the opinions of the 13 fans on board. Supporters themselves also listened to his views on the financial challenges posed by the club but they made it clear that easing their losses by using fans would be the wrong move.
Man Utd fans have continued to make their feelings clear on the ticket prices increases
Man Utd fans have continued to make their feelings clear on the ticket prices increases
United's financial issues have seen Ratcliffe and Ineos make 250 jobs at the club redundant and it has been reported that another 100-plus staff are set to be made redundant to free up money for first-team spending. The club have also cut a number of staff benefits that were previously enjoyed.
Ruben Amorim's side are currently 13th in the Premier League table and face the prospect of missing out on European football come the end of the season. That would be another missed opportunity from a financial point of view and their performances on the pitch underline the need to invest in the squad.
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