Manchester United have reportedly concluded that touts are to blame for the large number of Rangers fans who infiltrated the home end at Old Trafford during last week’s Europa League clash.
Chaos broke out in the stands during the Red Devils’ 2-1 victory, resulting in 39 arrests.
Officially, Rangers had brought a travelling support of 3,000 to the Theatre of Dreams. However, footage that emerged on social media appeared to show many more fans dotted around parts of the stadium.
Videos from inside the home end showed brawls breaking out as United supporters confronted alleged Rangers fans.
BBC revealed that out of the 39 arrests made, 26 were for violent disorder. One other person was arrested for attacking a steward, five for drug offences and three for common assault.
Other arrests were over attempts to access to get into Old Trafford with a forged ticket and public order offences such as tragedy chanting.
According to the Daily Mail, United’s investigations have concluded that “widespread ticket touting” was to blame for the chaos.
“Confidential has learned that the majority of the rogue Rangers fans picked them up from ticket websites that use bots posing as members to buy up tickets and re-sell them at higher prices.”
“United have introduced digital ticketing since similar issues arose against Galatasaray in the Champions League in October 2023, which involves tighter measures including QR codes being issued three hours before kick-off.”
“But sources indicate the practice is difficult to prevent because the touts can bypass the system by passing on the codes or selling log-in details.”
The newspaper further notes, “The problem is understood to exist at most United games – and other matches and events around the country – but it was particularly noticeable last Thursday because Rangers fans are more vocal than most and Greater Manchester Police corralled the individuals into one group close to the Rangers away end for security purposes.”
It’s understood that United have made use of available data to uncover accounts linked to the fiasco.
Those found responsible will be sanctioned.
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
