Manchester United fans call on FA to act after 'disgraceful' Manchester City decision

Manchester United fans have called on the FA to act after their rivals Manchester City decided to host the FA Youth Cup final at their 7,000-capacity Joie Stadium, despite the Red Devils offering the match to be played at Old Trafford.

City rejected the proposal put forward by United for the contest on May 14.

United supporters have been allocated just 968 tickets for the cross-city derby, a figure that has intensified criticism of the arrangement from those who believe young players deserve a grander occasion.

The Manchester United Supporters Trust and Manchester United Fans' Forum issued a joint statement condemning the venue choice.

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The groups said: "The news that the FA Youth Cup final, a great fixture which has heralded so many superstars of the future, is to be played in a stadium of just 6,000 people is a disgrace.

"Last time United were in the final, we had 67,000 fans in Old Trafford, so allowing this massive game to be played in front of such a paltry few fans is letting down supporters and denying these young footballers the biggest night of their careers so far.

"The FA needs to step in and ensure the game can be played at either the Etihad or Old Trafford. Time to put fans first for once."

Manchester City maintain they are within their rights to use the Joie Stadium, having been drawn as the home side for the fixture.

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The club has received dispensation from the FA to stage Youth Cup matches at the venue throughout this season.

Club officials point to scheduling constraints as the primary obstacle to using the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's senior squad still have three Premier League home fixtures remaining this campaign.

Although an 11-day window exists between their Crystal Palace match and the season-ending clash with Aston Villa, City argue this period is essential for completing North Stand construction work.

United's most recent appearance in the final came in 2022, when a crowd exceeding 60,000 packed Old Trafford to watch a side featuring Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho defeat Nottingham Forest.

The fan groups referenced this occasion, noting: "Last time United were in the final we had 67,000 fans in Old Trafford."

City themselves attracted 20,000 spectators when they lifted the trophy against Leeds United at the Etihad Stadium two years ago.

Since 2000, every other host club has staged the final at their primary ground.

United Academy staff are reportedly unhappy, in what could be for some players the biggest game of their careers.

The final is a repeat of the 1986 final, which was hosted over two legs at Old Trafford and Maine Road, with City coming out as victors.

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