Man City anger fans as £70m Man United news emerges – Kieran Maguire
Man City have decided to increase ticket prices to try and close a £70million gap in income to arch-rivals Manchester United.
That is the view of finance expert Kieran Maguire, who exclusively told Football Insider that City are “substantially behind” their ‘Big Six’ rivals when it comes to matchday income.
City fans have launched protests against the club following the announcement that season ticket prices will rise by an average of five percent.
Supporters raised a banner that accused the club of “exploiting the loyalty” of fans prior to their Premier League clash against Arsenal.
City have increased their prices despite announcing revenue of £713million in their 2022-23 accounts – a Premier League record.
Man City desperate to close £70m gap to Man United as fans protest
Maguire explained that City’s owners will be eager to close the matchday income gap to cross-town rivals Manchester United.
“In the Premier League, you have to run to stand still,” Maguire told Football Insider’s Sean Fisher.
“The other members of the Big Six have put up season ticket prices and matchday ticket prices and Manchester City are already substantially behind.
“They’re around about £60-£70 million behind Manchester United in terms of matchday income.
“The owners at City are aware of the changes to cost control rules moving to a soft wage cap and they will know that for every extra £100 that they generate through ticket sales, they’re going to be able to spend an extra £70 on wages.
“City have done fantastically well in terms of delivering trophies and developing the area around the stadium, but that has come at a cost.
“But at the same time, you can understand fan frustration towards the rises.”
In other news, Man City ready bid for West Ham star after already ‘agreement’ secured
For more Man City and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.