Manchester United have admitted they cannot fully prevent away fans from securing seats in home areas at Old Trafford, despite implementing strict measures to block unauthorized ticket sales.
During Thursday’s Europa League clash against Rangers, over 3,500 away fans were in the designated section, but TV footage revealed many more celebrating in home areas during their 2-1 defeat.
The club stated that tickets were issued only to supporters registered in their database, but acknowledged that unauthorized resales made it impossible to completely stop breaches.
A full investigation has been launched, with severe penalties promised for those found violating ticket rules.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed 39 arrests on the night, including 26 related to disorder in the city center.
This is not the first such incident at Old Trafford—United previously apologized after thousands of Galatasaray fans entered home areas during a Champions League match last year.
