Manchester United is implementing a firm new social media policy, effectively banning staff from sharing behind-the-scenes content and taking photos within the club's private areas.
New Guidelines for Greater Control
The Premier League giants are set to instigate new guidelines for all employees, aiming to exert greater control over the material that leaves the club's most private spaces. The move is a direct crackdown on what the club describes as 'self-promotional' material being posted on personal channels.
Senior officials at Old Trafford believe that too much unsanctioned content, particularly from staff with access to the first team, is being released into the public domain. The club insists it does not wish to be 'killjoys' but maintains that having stricter rules over internal content is not unreasonable.
A Mixed Reception and Historical Precedent
The internal reaction to the new directive has been mixed. Some staff argue that showcasing pride in their work on social media is a positive action and view the restrictions as an overstep. Others, however, point out that such strict oversight over public information was a hallmark of Sir Alex Ferguson’s successful reign.
It is important to note that the club has clarified it has no issue with staff sharing official content that they have contributed to. The new guidelines will specifically outline what club-related content is deemed inappropriate for personal social media channels.
Building a New Culture at Carrington
The social media clampdown coincides with the club's broader efforts to cultivate a specific internal culture. Sporting director Jason Wilcox recently elaborated on this ambition, stating, “At the heart of it is our people, it’s really important. I have a saying: feel like a family, perform like a team.”
Despite the new restrictions for staff, the club is opening its doors to fans. Supporters will be offered the chance to tour the new £50 million Carrington training complex, with visits starting in June as players depart for the World Cup.
The tour, which will become part of some Old Trafford stadium experiences, will grant access to the dressing room, gym, recovery areas, press conference room, and the players’ lounge. However, in a clear echo of the new staff policy, fans will not be permitted to take photographs of the inner sanctum. The club will charge £100 for the tour, a fee applicable to adults, over-65s, and under-16s.
