In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United's supporters' group, The 1958, has decided to postpone a planned protest against the club's ownership, which was scheduled to coincide with the Premier League opener against Arsenal on August 17. This decision underscores the complex and evolving relationship between the club's management and its passionate fanbase.
A History of Unrest
The Glazer family's acquisition of Manchester United in 2005 has been a contentious issue, with fans expressing dissatisfaction over the years. The formation of FC United of Manchester by disillusioned supporters in 2005 exemplifies this discontent. In March 2025, a significant joint protest between Manchester United and FC United fans marked the 20th anniversary of the Glazers' ownership, highlighting the enduring nature of the opposition. (https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/mar/24/manchester-united-fc-united-fans-joint-anti-glazers-protest-20-years?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/mar/24/manchester-united-fc-united-fans-joint-anti-glazers-protest-20-years?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">theguardian.com)
The Ratcliffe Factor
The entry of British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who acquired a 28.94% stake in the club in February 2024, introduced new dynamics. Ratcliffe's involvement was initially seen as a potential catalyst for positive change. However, his subsequent decisions, including proposed ticket price increases and the introduction of a "personal seat licence" scheme, have been met with criticism. This scheme would require fans to pay an upfront fee—potentially up to £4,000—just to have the right to purchase a season ticket for the same seat over the next 30 years. (https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/extortionate-manchester-united-move-slammed-by-fans-as-old-trafford-embraces-us-style-first-report?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.fourfourtwo.com/news/extortionate-manchester-united-move-slammed-by-fans-as-old-trafford-embraces-us-style-first-report?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">fourfourtwo.com)
The Postponed Protest
The 1958 had organized a protest march to Old Trafford on August 17, ahead of United’s clash with Arsenal, with banners referring to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. However, after conducting a survey, the group acknowledged that opinion is split and the time is not right for a protest. A statement from The 1958 read:
> "Given the current sentiment within the fanbase and particularly in light of these recent survey results, it’s clear there is no unified view on the direction of the club under Ratcliffe. That split is real, and we believe it would be irresponsible to risk creating a situation that could result in any ‘red on red’ conflict inside or outside the stadium." (https://www.irishnews.com/sport/soccer/manchester-united-fans-group-postpones-protest-against-owners-HAMC4L6VWJJRRHVQV7Y7O27XTY/?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.irishnews.com/sport/soccer/manchester-united-fans-group-postpones-protest-against-owners-HAMC4L6VWJJRRHVQV7Y7O27XTY/?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">irishnews.com)
Looking Ahead
The postponement of the protest does not signify the end of fan activism at Manchester United. Instead, it reflects a strategic pause, allowing for a more unified approach in the future. As the club embarks on the new season, the interplay between management decisions and fan reactions will undoubtedly continue to shape the narrative at Old Trafford.
Upcoming Fixtures
Manchester United's upcoming fixtures are as follows:
## EPL Schedule
- Arsenal FC @ Manchester United on Sunday, Aug 17, 2025 at 08:30 AM PDT
- Manchester United @ Fulham FC on Sunday, Aug 24, 2025 at 08:30 AM PDT
- Burnley FC @ Manchester United on Saturday, Aug 30, 2025 at 07:00 AM PDT
- Manchester United @ Manchester City on Sunday, Sep 14, 2025 at 08:30 AM PDT
- Chelsea FC @ Manchester United on Saturday, Sep 20, 2025 at 09:30 AM PDT
These matches will be pivotal in setting the tone for the season and may influence the ongoing dialogue between the club's management and its supporters.
