Manchester United supporters are planning a protest against the club’s ownership, accusing it of “turning the club into a circus” and plunging the Red Devils into chaos both on and off the pitch. The 1958 fan group, which organizes major demonstrations, has confirmed plans to stage a protest ahead of United’s Premier League match against Fulham on 1 February 2026.

“After lurching from one disaster to another, Ratcliffe comes across as an incompetent clown turning the club into a circus. Instead of best in class, we’re a laughing stock,” the group said in a statement.

---

Growing Discontent With Club Ownership

Discontent has been escalating around minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who became a shareholder at United in February 2024. The appointment and subsequent sacking of Ruben Amorim has been cited as a key trigger for fan outrage, compounding frustration over previous managerial changes.

Fans recently held an anti-Ratcliffe banner at Turf Moor during United’s 2-2 draw with Burnley, with supporters also vocal against co-chairman Joel Glazer.

Despite criticism, Ratcliffe’s supporters highlight the £250m personal investment he has made in the club, including the complete renovation of the Carrington training complex, as evidence of his long-term commitment to Manchester United.

---

Management Instability at Old Trafford

The turmoil has been compounded by frequent managerial changes. After retaining Erik ten Hag following United’s 2024 FA Cup win over Manchester City and investing £200m in new players, the Dutchman was sacked just nine games into the new Premier League season. Amorim’s similar dismissal after finishing 15th last season further fueled fan unrest.

“Let us be clear: this is not a defence of Ruben or the football served up under him. Much of it was unacceptable. But his dismissal once again exposes the continued dysfunction at our club,” the 1958 group added.

United are still searching for a caretaker manager, with former stars Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Michael Carrick among potential candidates. However, substantive discussions have yet to take place.

---

Interim Leadership and Upcoming Fixtures

Darren Fletcher, currently United’s Under-18 coach, has taken temporary charge and impressed senior figures with his approach. The club hosts Brighton in the FA Cup third round on 11 January 2026, and preparations are already underway for the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on 17 January, although sources say it is unlikely a permanent appointment will be made before the fixture.

While Fletcher’s interim role has been praised, the ongoing uncertainty around the managerial position and club ownership continues to worry fans and observers alike. Cost-cutting measures, including redundancies and ticket price increases, have also contributed to the growing unrest among supporters.

---

Manchester United Fans Demand Accountability

The 1958 group has called for meaningful change, emphasizing that both poor on-pitch performance and off-field chaos have left Manchester United “a laughing stock” in the eyes of supporters. Fans hope their protest will signal the urgency for long-term stability, transparent leadership, and clear footballing direction.

As Old Trafford prepares for key fixtures in January, the spotlight will not only be on United’s players but also on the club’s leadership and how they respond to a growing wave of supporter dissatisfaction.