Redaction Simon Brett with Tom Procter
Published on 2024-04-04 13:30:00
Manchester City put on a brilliant team performance against Aston Villa, winning 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium. Phil Foden’s hat-trick and Rodri’s midfield play were standout moments of the match. However, before the game, the club reportedly made a controversial decision related to a fan group. The 1894 Group had their accreditations removed after displaying banners protesting against a rise in season ticket prices.
The 1894 Group was unable to set up banners and displays at the Etihad Stadium for the Villa clash due to their accreditation being removed by the club. City defended their decision by stating that the group did not apply for accreditation for the game, but the group disputed this claim, saying they had notified the club well in advance. The banner protest against Arsenal was reportedly removed because it was draped over advertising boards, not due to its content.
The decision by City to not return accreditations to the 1894 Group for the Villa game in response to the ticket price protest has been criticized as shameful. The club’s choice to increase ticket prices during a cost of living crisis when they posted record revenues last season has been called tone-deaf. While City continues to excel on the pitch, handling off-the-field issues like this is crucial for maintaining a positive relationship with fans.
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