Joel Glazer commits to Fan Advisory Board during Man Utd fans' forum
By Ross Jackson
Co-chairman of Manchester United Joel Glazer has followed through on his word in attending a fans' forum in which he addressed a number of issues including the proposed Fan Advisory Board.
Glazer agreed to attend the forum shortly after supporters yet again tried to disrupt the Red Devils' clash against Liverpool, having caused the originally scheduled game to be postponed.
With pressure continuing to mount over his family's running of the club, the United co-chairman announced he would be open to discussing club matters with fans at a meeting in early June.
Said meeting has now taken place with plans to increase fan representation within the club via a Fan Advisory Board discussed further. The board will be made up of representatives from the forum and must be consulted on a number of key matters including leaving competitions and moving away from Old Trafford.
Another key takeaway from the meeting was that the club have agreed to work with the Manchester United Supporters' Trust (MUST) on a Fan Share Scheme, with all shares representing equal voting rights to the ones held by the Glazers.
The United owners have agreed to pay all fines that come from the club's decision to join the Super League - though it's unclear where the money will come from - with Glazer adding they intend to keep investing in the club moving forward.
“Our goal is to win every competition we compete in, and we will continue to invest in our academy and in the transfer market to support the manager in an effort to meet the club’s goals," he said.
“As a club we have devoted a lot of time and resources over the last several years updating and further developing our vast global scouting network to adapt to the modern football environment. This is a project that should provide a foundation for long-term success in the years to come.
“In addition, as you all know, we have also been focused on growing and developing our women’s team in line with the traditions and values of the club, and we are committed to continuing that process."
Glazer went on to confirm United's facilities including Old Trafford and the Carrington training complex would be significantly upgraded, and afterwards he spoke of his commitment to offer fans a louder voice within the club.
“I was pleased to join the fans’ forum to listen to the views of supporters, address their questions, and share ideas on how we can improve the way we work together," he said.
“As owners, we want exactly the same thing as the fans - a successful team and a strong club - and we want to work in partnership to achieve those objectives. Fans are the lifeblood of Manchester United and I am personally committed to ensuring that they are given an enhanced voice, through the creation of a Fan Advisory Board and a Fan Share Scheme.
“The club has been in discussions with MUST regarding a Fan Share Scheme for a number of months and has already sought external legal advice on options. Discussions will now intensify, with the aim of agreeing a plan before the start of the new season.”