Fans from Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United will join forces this weekend to protest at rising ticket prices.
In support of a Football Supporters Association (FSA) campaign, Manchester United supporters plan to hold a ‘Stop Exploiting Loyalty’ banner along with their Everton counterparts before their teams play at Old Trafford on Sunday (13:30 GMT).
Liverpool host Manchester City at 16:00 GMT on the same day and fans of both clubs will also display banners with a similar message at the game between their clubs.
Manchester United have been accused of exploiting fans after taking the mid-season decision to raise matchday ticket prices to £66 per game, with no concessions for children or pensioners.
“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,” said a spokesperson for Manchester United fan group FC58.
“The only way we can achieve this is collaboration. This is our first step. This movement will grow.”
Dave Kelly. from Everton Fans Supporting Foodbanks. said: “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.”
Liverpool have increased ticket prices by 2% for this season, while City raised their season ticket prices, external by an average of 5%.
“It’s time for clubs to remember that their wealth and success are built on the unwavering loyalty of their supporters,” said Gareth Roberts, the spokesman of Liverpool fan group Spirit of Shankly.
“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.”
MCFC Fans Foodbank Support spokesperson Nick Clarke 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.”
