Kieran Maguire: Man United ‘losing money’ as mission to combat ’empty seats’ launched
Man United are losing out on extra revenue because of season ticket holders failing to attend matches at Old Trafford.
That is the view of finance guru Kieran Maguire, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Red Devils’ plan to combat empty seats.
United have told season ticket holders they will lose their passes unless they attend 10 home games per season, per The Times on Tuesday (8 February).
Old Trafford has as many as 7,000 empty seats at some matches despite tickets for those spaces having been sold.
Some Premier League clubs offer a scheme whereby fans can sell their season ticket back to the club on a match-by-match basis.
Maguire argues that United should look to take similar action to maximise their matchday income.
“I think a fan reselling mechanism is common at many clubs,” he told Football Insider‘s Adam Williams.
“It makes sense for all concerned. The fan gets their share back and the club generates more revenue at a higher price.
“If it is a day fan, they are more likely to spend more money on merchandise and catering.
“I think there are legitimate reasons for people not being able to attend. The Premier League has got to take some responsibility because of scheduling.
“Fans are effectively expected to keep Friday to Monday free because TV dictates kick-off times.
“United are losing out on some money. But for a club that pride themselves on the ability to sell out, it looks a bit uncomfortable to see empty seats.
“If you want to transfer your seat to someone else, they aren’t bothered who occupies it.”
United’s turnover for 2020-21 was £494million.
They have averaged approximately £110m in matchday income in recent years.
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