More than 50 groups of Manchester United supporters have listed their demands for potential buyers of the club – including a commitment not to join the European Super League and to continue the development of the women’s team.
In an open letter, groups of supporters said they wanted any new owners to “care and invest” in the club and recognize it as “more than just a business asset”.
Requests from any potential bidder include:
- A commitment to clear the club’s existing debt and fund future capital expenditure through new share issues
- Investment in men’s, women’s and youth teams as well as club infrastructure to modernize Old Trafford and training ground
- Shared ownership with fans as partners, plus fan representation on the company’s main board
- The words “Football Club” are restored to the club badge on the shirt
- Ongoing development, support and promotion of the women’s team
- Commitment to never again seek to participate in a competition like the European Super League without the final consent of the fans
- Maintain affordability of match tickets for supporters
The open letter was co-signed by official United supporter groups such as the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) and the MUFC Women’s Supporters Club, as well as branches in the UK and overseas.
He said it would be “helpful” for potential bidders to “understand what the fans want from any new owner, in order to secure the support of the fans”.
BBC Sport understands if the Glazers sell – which is not certain – a deal is probably done by spring.
The Glazers bought United in a controversial £790m takeover in May 2005.
The club have since spent more than £1billion in interest and loan payments, as well as stock dividends – the majority of which went to the American family.
Numerous demonstrations by supporters accompanied the sale and back in recent seasonsespecially since the failed attempt to launch the European Super League.
