Manchester United has emerged as the club with the highest number of football-related arrests in the Premier League during the 2022-23 season, according to newly released government data.
The Home Office report reveals that 114 arrests were linked to the Red Devils, more than any other top-flight English club. This troubling statistic highlights ongoing concerns about fan behaviour at Old Trafford and across the football league system.
Alarming Trends in Football Disorder
The comprehensive data shows a worrying 60% increase in football-related arrests across England and Wales compared to pre-pandemic levels. While Manchester United topped the Premier League table for arrests, Millwall recorded the highest number in the EFL Championship with 80 incidents.
Authorities made a total of 2,264 football-related arrests last season – the highest figure since the 2013-14 campaign. This surge comes despite extensive efforts by clubs and police to combat hooliganism.
Most Common Offences
- Public disorder (653 arrests)
- Violent disorder (323 arrests)
- Alcohol offences (180 arrests)
- Pitch invasions (182 arrests)
The report also identified 682 new banning orders issued during the season, bringing the total number of active bans to 1,624 – a significant 24% increase from the previous year.
Police Response and Club Reactions
Chief Constable Mark Roberts of Cheshire Police, the National Police Chiefs' Council lead for football policing, expressed concern about the figures: "While the majority of fans behave responsibly, we're seeing a worrying minority whose actions threaten the safety and enjoyment of others."
Manchester United issued a statement emphasising their zero-tolerance approach to antisocial behaviour and ongoing cooperation with authorities to maintain matchday safety.
The data comes as football authorities continue to grapple with how to balance passionate fan culture with maintaining order at matches. With the new season underway, all eyes will be on whether these concerning trends continue or if intervention measures prove effective.
