Manchester United fan groups have condemned the decision to stage the FA Youth Cup final at Manchester City's academy stadium, branding it a 'disgrace'. The match will be held at the 7,000-capacity Joie Stadium following protracted negotiations between the two clubs, the Football Association, and broadcasters.
United's Offer Rejected
Manchester United had offered to host the final at Old Trafford, a suggestion also backed by the FA. However, City rejected all requests to preserve home advantage, sparking outrage among United supporters.
In a joint statement, the Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST) and Fans' Forum representatives 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 7,000 people is a disgrace.' They added: '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.'
FA Dispensation and Stadium Constraints
According to Daily Mail Sport, the FA granted City dispensation to play their Youth Cup matches at the Joie Stadium this season. Conversely, United's Under-18s have played all their home Youth Cup games at Old Trafford, including wins over Peterborough United, Derby County, Sunderland, and Crystal Palace.
The FA pushed for the final to be held at the Etihad Stadium, but City insisted this was not possible due to ongoing construction of the North Stand. City sources stated that halting work for a day would delay the stand's completion, which is needed for a test event on May 20 before the final Premier League match against Aston Villa.
Sources close to United's Under-18s expressed frustration, noting that the previous five finals were held at first-team venues: Villa Park (2020-21 and 2024-25), Old Trafford (2021-22), Emirates Stadium (2022-23), and the Etihad Stadium (2023-24).
