Manchester United have proactively addressed travel concerns for their dedicated fans ahead of their upcoming bank holiday match against Crystal Palace on May 6th. The Premier League club has written to the league, requesting ‘greater consideration’ for supporters facing logistical challenges due to the inconvenient kick-off time and location.
Known as the Red Devils, Manchester United will visit Selhurst Park on a Monday bank holiday, creating potential travel disruptions for fans traveling to London. With an 8 pm match start, returning north post-game becomes exceedingly difficult. Recognizing these challenges, the club has not only communicated their concerns to the league but also taken proactive steps to support their dedicated fanbase.
In a statement released by the Manchester Evening News, the club expressed:
“We share your frustrations and understand the logistical challenges this fixture presents for our fans, especially with an 8 pm kick-off on a bank holiday Monday in London.”
The club continued, assuring fans of their actions:
“We are writing to the Premier League regarding this issue and advocating for match-going supporters to be given more thought when arranging fixture schedules with broadcasters. In the meantime, we’re pleased to offer free coach travel for fans traveling from Manchester to Selhurst Park through our partnership with adidas and our official coach partner, One Club United.”
To further sweeten the deal, the club added:
“For those who prefer other modes of transportation, all ticket holders will be entered into a draw to win a signed Manchester United shirt. Thank you for your unwavering support.”
This gesture is particularly significant as the Selhurst Park clash marks United’s fifth 8 pm kick-off of the season—more than any other English top-flight side. Earlier this year, fans encountered similar travel woes following their Brentford draw, underscoring the necessity of the club’s proactive measures and MUST’s (Manchester United Supporters’ Trust) recent call for change.
The match at the GTech Community Stadium on Easter Saturday had kicked off just two minutes before the last train to Manchester departed, leaving some fans stranded. The upcoming Selhurst Park clash presents an identical dilemma with the final train departing at 9:39 pm. This leaves supporters with a difficult choice—either depart during the first half or opt for a significantly later train that arrives back in Manchester early the next morning.
MUST strongly advocated for match-going fans to be considered when scheduling Premier League games for TV coverage, stating:
“It feels like the football authorities and TV companies are trolling United fans with this bank holiday Monday evening kick-off time… Once again, the needs of match-going fans seem to be an afterthought. A shift in mindset is needed from those setting kick-off times, and fan input should be included in these decisions.”
As Manchester United prepare for their highly anticipated clash with Crystal Palace, the club has effectively showcased its commitment to fan support through tangible actions and league correspondence. Meanwhile, fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling match as the Red Devils strive for victory.