The match at the Etihad against Arsenal was the first game since the change in ticket prices was announced to fans
Manchester City were accused of “exploiting the loyalty” of fans as fans angrily protested against recent increases in season ticket prices.
A banner reading: “Record profits, but record prices.” Stop exploiting our loyalty!” was displayed in the south stand of the Etihad Stadium ahead of City's 0-0 draw with Arsenal.
City announced season ticket prices for next season would rise by an average of five per cent, prompting fury among fans who fear they will be devalued.
The 1894 group that organized the banner stated that it was confiscated by the stewards. But City sources insisted it was only removed because it was on billboards, which was against ground rules, and not because of its content.
City officials accused the City of being “defensive” in 1894, calling for the club to negotiate with supporters' groups over the issue of ticket prices.
“They confiscated the banner,” an 1894 spokesman said. “The stewards said they were ordered to take it off us. They took the names of three participants.
“The banner contained nothing offensive and was only displayed before the match and not during the game.
“All of City's major fan groups are in favor of a price freeze and are also concerned about the current ticketing policy in general, so we We speak not only for ourselves, but also on behalf of a large number of fans.
“We are calling on the club to now come out and talk to fans properly about ticket prices and policies, rather than being defensive.”
Rising operating costs, inflation and rising prices from Premier League rivals Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United were cited as reasons for the price increase.
City insist that they have listened to feedback on the issue, but some fans believe the Club is paying lip service to the situation and is struggling to come to terms with the promotion, given the treble winners posted record revenues of almost £713 million last season.< /p>
On Friday, Pep Guardiola, the city manager, admitted he “absolutely” understood fans' frustration with ticket prices, but said he was confident they would continue to give the team their full support.
1894 responded to Guardiola's remarks, calling on the coach to convey to fans concerns about the club's hierarchy.
“Of course, we have an obligation to support the team from the first whistle on Sunday…” they said on X. “But if he [Guardiola] “absolutely” understands the fans, then he needs to pass that on to Simon Pearce, Ferran Soriano, Roel De Vries and Khaldoon Al Mubarak.”
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