Manchester United returned to Old Trafford for their final pre-season friendly of the summer on Saturday but one controversy came off the pitch.
In Manchester United’s 1-1 draw with Fiorentina, the standout moment came when David de Gea was substituted to a standing ovation.
However, another talking point emerged off the pitch; the newly increased prices for food and drink inside the stadium.
Supporters at the match noticed significant hikes, with the cost of a 500ml Carling rising by 30 per cent and Madri by 51 per cent.
Similar frustrations surfaced when Old Trafford hosted Soccer Aid last month, where prices were also raised. At the time, the club said food and beverage costs for the 2025/26 season had yet to be decided, but the new rates have now been confirmed.
United release statement after receiving major criticism for change
The new regime at United under Sir Jim Ratcliffe have been praised recently for some of their signings in the transfer window, including the latest addition of Benjamin Sesko.
Carrington’s new makeover has also drawn positivity amongst the fanbase but it has been the cost-cutting measures that are impacting fans that have been criticised the most.
A United spokesman said of the new prices at the stadium, via the Manchester Evening News: “For the last two seasons, we have trialled discounting beer following fan feedback.
“Unfortunately, this has coincided with high increases in food & beverage (25-30%) in the last three years since kiosk prices were last reviewed holistically.
“To reflect the increase in operating costs, and the rising cost of produce, for the 2025/26 campaign we will not be able to continue offering this discount and therefore some kiosk prices will increase.
“Most notably, bottled Carling (500ml) will increase from £3.80 to £4.95 (which remains cheaper than 3 years ago), and a pint of Madri will increase from £3.80 to £5.75.
“Although this is an increase on previous seasons, it still means a pint of beer is beneath the £6 average in the Premier League, and well beneath the average cost of a pint of beer at five local pubs to Old Trafford used by fans on match day (£6.29).
“Based on prices known publicly, the revised pricing means Old Trafford will serve the 9th cheapest pint in the Premier League.
“Meal deals remain available, and fans can pick up three items for £10.70 (£1 increase on 2024/25) and six items for £20 (£2.80 increase on 2024/25) offering good value for money (meal deals include 1 hot food item, typically grill-type e.g. pie or hot dog, 1 drink e.g. beer, wine, or soft drink, 1 snack e.g. chips/crisps or confectionery).”
United’s matchgoers are concerned
Local matchgoing fans are considered as the heartbeat of every football club in the land and they are the ones who will be irked by these changes.
After controversy over ticket prices under Ratcliffe’s rule, and the plans for a new 100,000-seater stadium, there are concerns that those same people will be priced out of attending matches.
Ratcliffe did not help these claims when he spoke to United We Stand and suggested that “it doesn’t make sense” for United’s tickets to cost less than Fulham.
The INEOS-led regime at United have certainly done some good things since they took charge at Old Trafford but these changes will only further concerns within important areas of the fanbase.
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