Old Trafford price rises announced

Manchester United raises beer and meal prices at Old Trafford ahead of the new season, triggering criticism from supporters.

Price rises at Old Trafford provoke fan backlash

Manchester United has confirmed price increases for beer at Old Trafford ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. A 500ml bottle of Carling will rise from £3.80 to £4.95, and a pint of Madri will go from £3.80 to £5.75. The club says the changes reflect higher operating costs and the rising cost of produce. It will end the beer discount that had run for the last two seasons after fan feedback. Meal deals remain available, with three items for £10.70 and six items for £20. Old Trafford continues to be cheaper than many rivals’ pubs for match day, and officials note the price of a pint remains below the Premier League average. Ticket prices for match days were raised to £66 per game in the Premier League with no concessions for children or pensioners. The club says the revised pricing will still place Old Trafford among the lower end of league prices.

Fan reaction has been immediate. Supporter groups and local fans say the changes add to a growing sense that attending games is increasingly out of reach. The Manchester Evening News reported the club previously defended pricing as necessary to cover rising costs and to keep operations sustainable. Protests are planned around the next home game, underscoring the pressure on the club to balance costs with loyalty.

The move highlights a broader tension in big clubs that rely on matchday revenue. Price increases can protect short-term finances but risk long-term fan engagement, especially in a city with a strong ticket-buying base. When discounts disappear and prices rise, clubs must explain how the money will improve the experience on the ground. For Manchester United, the challenge is to show that higher prices do not erode the sense of belonging that keeps fans coming back, especially as ownership seeks to balance investor confidence with community expectations. The question is whether this pricing strategy makes financial sense for the average supporter over a full season or if it creates a rift that costs the club more than it gains.

Highlights

Fans will be watching how the club balances costs with community expectations in the weeks ahead.