Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold meets disgruntled fans at local pub
The Manchester United chief executive, Richard Arnold, met disgruntled supporters in a pub to address concerns about the future of the club.
Fans had been planning a protest outside Arnold’s Cheshire home amid continuing unrest about the ownership of the Glazer family. The CEO, who replaced Ed Woodward earlier this year, bought drinks for the group and discussed a range of topics, including the owners, financial issues and United’s pursuit of the Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong. Arnold reportedly said money was “not a consideration” in the club’s summer recruitment drive when asked about transfer plans under new boss Erik ten Hag.
A spokesperson for Manchester United said: “Richard heard that a group of fans had gathered in a pub near his house. He went to meet them, bought them all a drink, listened to their views, and explained what the club is doing to deliver success on the pitch, improve the stadium, and strengthen engagement with fans.”
Footage of the meeting appeared on social media on Saturday evening.
United endured their worst Premier League campaign from a points perspective, finishing sixth with a tally of 58 with only 16 wins from their 38 games. The underwhelming season was played out against a backdrop of protests against the Glazers.
A new era is set to begin at Old Trafford following the appointment of Ten Hag. The former Ajax manager has replaced the interim manager, Ralf Rangnick, who took over following Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s dismissal in November. Rangnick was initially due to remain with the 20-times English champions in a consultancy role but that plan was scrapped last month.