Manchester United are selling preserved pieces of the Old Trafford pitch to supporters for £125 each. The initiative, first offered to season-ticket holders this week, allows fans to own a tangible piece of the stadium's history during a period of significant transition for the club.
The playing surface was completely excavated and stripped back to its foundation in June for the first time in 14 years, a project led by head groundsman Tony Sinclair to improve drainage and player welfare. Instead of discarding the old turf, the club preserved sections of it. These pieces are now encased in 7cm by 7cm acrylic glass cubes, presented in a black box alongside a photograph of the stadium, and marketed as a one-of-a-kind collector's item on the United Store.
Club statement on historic pitch
In a statement, the club said: “Wins and losses, successes and failures, highs and lows. We’ve seen it all. Now, supporters can own a piece of the pitch.” The sale arrives at a challenging time for the club. Manchester United currently sit 12th in the Premier League standings with just five points from their first five matches. Their form has seen them score 6 goals while conceding 8. The club also recently reported a seventh consecutive annual loss, with accumulated debt exceeding £1 billion.
This context makes the pitch memorabilia a poignant symbol for fans. Old Trafford, the club's home since 1910, has been the stage for 13 league title triumphs but also recent painful results, including a 2-3 home defeat to Brighton where United surrendered a two-goal lead. The club's immediate focus now shifts to the next challenge at the Theatre of Dreams, a home fixture against Tottenham on 10 October. Erik ten Hag's side will be looking to their full squad to improve their stats and secure a much-needed victory in that match, which is part of a key run of fixtures ahead.
The report in full is at Straits Times Sport
