Protests In Old Trafford Delay Premier League

 

Supporters protest against Manchester United’s owners, outside English Premier League club Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, northwest England on May 2, 2021, ahead of their English Premier League fixture against Liverpool. Oli SCARFF / AFP

Kick-off in Sunday’s Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool was delayed after fans invaded Old Trafford as part of a protest against United’s owners, the Glazer family.

Hundreds of fans managed to make their way into the ground and onto the pitch, chanting “we want Glazers out.”

Large numbers of supporters had also gathered outside the stadium, on the day Manchester City could be crowned Premier League champions if United lose.

The match had been due to start at 1630 local time (1530GMT), but the Premier League confirmed the game has been delayed until further notice.

Anger towards the Glazers has been reignited by United’s part in a proposed European Super League (ESL) that collapsed within 48 hours last month due to a backlash from fans, players, governments and governing bodies.

United were reportedly one of the leading drivers behind the project that sought to guarantee top level European football for 15 founder members every season without the need to qualify on the pitch.

In a rare public statement, United co-chairman Joel Glazer apologised to fans for signing up to the ESL.

“You made very clear your opposition to the European Super League, and we have listened. We got it wrong, and we want to show that we can put things right,” he said.

“Although the wounds are raw and I understand that it will take time for the scars to heal, I am personally committed to rebuilding trust with our fans and learning from the message you delivered with such conviction.”