The majority of Manchester United players gave back their family allocation of tickets for Saturday’s match against Chelsea so the fans could have a higher allocation.
The gesture came after United’s clash with Chelsea was confirmed for Saturday, October 22 at 5.30 pm. The date and time were announced only two weeks before the game, leaving supporters with travel and accommodation concerns.
To make matters worse, Metropolitan Police wanted to reduce United’s away allocation of tickets from 2,994, which had already sold out, to 1,500 due to police concerns over the heated rivalry.
The Manchester side then appealed the decision and were able to increase their allocation to 2,379. Both the club and fans were left feeling the decision was unjustified, especially given the short notice.
United have given fans with tickets for the match the option of returning their seat for a full refund or returning their ticket in exchange for a ticket to a different away game; either Aston Villa, Fulham, Wolverhampton Wanderers or Arsenal.
Players back fans amid the unjust decision
According to The Athletic, several United players opted to return their allocation of family tickets, which is usually two per member, to ensure supporters had the maximum amount possible at Stamford Bridge and to “express solidarity” with the fans.
Fair play to the players.
