In a revelation that has stunned the football world, two of Manchester United's most celebrated sons, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt, have openly discussed their surprising struggles to secure tickets for matches at their beloved Old Trafford.
The Iconic Duo's Astonishing Admission
The pair, integral members of United's legendary Class of '92 academy graduates, made the shocking comments during an appearance on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast. Between them, they boast an incredible 1,105 appearances for the Red Devils and lifted a combined 40 major honours during their storied careers.
Scholes, who made 718 appearances and won 25 trophies including 11 Premier League titles, set the tone by stating, 'It's a very different football club to the club we knew.' He revealed his own lack of contacts at the club now, a sentiment immediately echoed by Butt, who declared, 'I don't know anybody there.'
Forced to Use Touts and Face Threats
The situation became even more startling as Scholes explained the lengths he must go to for tickets. Despite holding four season tickets, he confessed to having to use a ticket tout to accommodate requests from friends. 'I've had to ring a tout? Am I allowed to say that? Honestly, I know a tout,' the midfield maestro admitted.
Butt's experience was arguably more jarring. The former midfielder, who played 387 times for United, revealed he had been threatened with having his son's season ticket revoked for lack of use. When he phoned to resolve the issue, he was met with the deflating question, 'who's that?' upon giving his name. Butt reflected, 'I felt like saying: I played about 450 games for this club!'
Fan Outcry and Club Soul-Searching
Despite their status, Scholes showed remarkable humility, asserting, 'Just because you played for the club, you're not entitled to stuff.' However, host Paddy McGuinness was quick to interject, highlighting their lifelong service.
The revelations have provoked a furious backlash from supporters online, with many labelling the situation a 'shambles' and accusing the club of having its 'soul ripped out.' One fan passionately argued that legends like Scholes and Butt should be 'rolled the red carpet out' for, while another suggested the club's owner should ensure all legends have permanent access.
While it is understood that the club would provide tickets to such legends if approached directly, the fact that these icons feel disconnected and unaware of the process has painted a concerning picture of the modern Manchester United, starkly contrasting with the family club they remember.
