Manchester United have issued a warning to supporters ahead of Saturday’s Premier League match against Chelsea at Old Trafford, urging fans to refrain from offensive chanting amid concerns over Alejandro Garnacho’s return.
Garnacho, 21, left United for Stamford Bridge in the summer after a fallout with manager Ruben Amorim, who exiled him following criticism in the wake of May’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. His comeback is expected to draw a hostile reaction from sections of the crowd.
In a statement released Thursday, United said they were determined to prevent the use of discriminatory chants, specifically highlighting the homophobic “rent boy” song historically aimed at Chelsea players and fans.
“As we prepare to welcome Chelsea FC to Old Trafford this weekend, Manchester United would like to reaffirm its commitment to ensuring Old Trafford remains a place where everyone feels safe, respected and valued,” the club said.
“We are aware of the use of the ‘rent boy’ chant that has been heard at fixtures involving Chelsea in recent years. We want to be absolutely clear: this chant is offensive, inappropriate and has no place at our stadium or within our game.”
The club confirmed the chant is regarded as a hate crime by both the Football Association and the Crown Prosecution Service, warning that fans who take part could face ejection from the stadium, banning orders, or even criminal charges.
United have previously worked with Rainbow Devils, the club’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, to issue guidance before Chelsea fixtures. This time, the club is taking a proactive stance to minimize incidents.
“We call on our supporters to uphold the values of our club by avoiding language and behaviour that causes harm or offence,” the statement added. “We encourage fans to challenge this chant and any other discriminatory behaviour, and instead channel passion into positive support for the team.”
