Glazers “will sell” as exec box list leaked
Duncan Drason, the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust (MUST) chairman, insists that the Glazer family will sell admin uncertainty over the club’s finances. Drasdo, who has led the campaign against the Glazer family in recent months, insists that the Glazer family will not walk away from a profit if the Red Knights bid comes to fruition this summer.
Meanwhile, another group self-dubbed United Supporters for Change (USC), has posted the names and addresses of executive box holders at Old Trafford on the Internet and is encouraging non-renewal of facilities until club ownership changes.
“If I was in the Glazers’ position and I was offered a profit, with all the different factors that are creating uncertainty for the future, it would seem like a pretty sensible option to take,” Duncan Drasdo told PA.
“When you look at all the graphs that were showing growth in ticket revenue, hospitality revenue and general matchday revenue, they are all dropping now.
“Their own advisors have said that in advice to the bond holders and they will drop next season as well. That suggests a decline in the value of the whole company, unless that revenue is replaced from somewhere else.
“With all the pressures of squad reinforcement, profits are going to drop further. It would be surprising if they weren’t willing to take something that gave them a profit.”
USC, which describes itself as a non-violent group, published an edited list of companies owning box facilities, asking firms to “recognise their responsibilities” when it comes to renewal amid concern that United’s £716 million debt will not allow Sir Alex Ferguson to strengthen the playing squad this summer.
“Executive and hospitality income represents around half of all “Matchday” revenue at MUFC,” said a USC statement.
“This gives the companies on this list huge potential influence over MUFC and its current owners
“The great majority of companies with facilities at Old Trafford are from the north-west, they are essential parts of our community, providing employment and driving our economy.
“We believe the vast majority of the individuals who purchase these facilities for their companies or who use them are supporters of MUFC and wish the best for the club.”
USC also encourages box holders not to renew until the Red Knights have made an offer for the club this summer. The £700 million bid, which will reportedly not include the £504 million bond, is now expected in June.
Although the club is yet to comment, direct action against sponsors and executive facility holders is cause for concern at senior levels. USC may spark the kind of pranks and direct action taken against United’s commercial partners in the past.