Four men breached security at Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium, climbing onto the roof and pitch hours before a testimonial match for Michael Carrick on 4 June. The club described the intruders as 'urban climbers' and condemned their actions as 'stupid and irresponsible'.
The incident occurred less than two weeks after a terror attack at Manchester Arena killed 22 people, and on the same day as the One Love Manchester concert at the nearby Old Trafford cricket ground. Security forces were on high alert following the London Bridge and Borough Market attack the previous day.
A Manchester United spokesman said the group's actions put the match at risk and diverted police resources. 'With over 130,000 people coming into the Old Trafford area on Sunday, the last thing they needed was to have their time wasted in this way,' he added.
The intruders avoided capture, and no arrests were made. Police later searched the stadium to confirm it was safe for the match. The club noted that similar actions appeared to be motivated by a trend on social media.
