The Europa League match between Manchester United and Rangers witnessed a brutal brawl which broke out between the fans of both clubs. The trouble started when large groups of Rangers supporters, who appeared to have purchased tickets in the home section of Old Trafford, clashed with Manchester United fans.
Videos circulating online show punches being thrown and fans being pushed out of their seats toward the concourse, with stewards struggling to control the escalating violence and prevent the situation from spiralling further.
Manchester United and Rangers fans clash at full time in the home end, again it's a disgrace @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/jzGWIgwCUS
— Paul Manc Bald and Bred (@MufcWonItAll2) January 23, 2025
According to a report by The Sun, Rangers brought an official travelling contingent of 3,000 fans to the game but video evidence from the match suggests that many more Rangers supporters were scattered throughout the stadium, sparking altercations. In several clips, confrontations between Manchester United supporters and alleged Rangers fans can be seen erupting within the home section.
Glass bottle thrown by fans on each other
The violence escalated even further with glass bottles being hurled between opposing fans. Viral footage shows Rangers fans, many dressed in black and wearing face coverings, engaging in physical altercations with United fans and throwing bottles, forcing bystanders to flee for safety.
Man United and Rangers fans clashing in the streets pic.twitter.com/9oPI1nKFK8
— Football Fights (@footbalIfights) January 23, 2025
Heavy police presence had been deployed in the area before the game to ensure security. Despite these precautions, Rangers supporters managed to create significant disturbances.
Manchester United issues statement on brawl
Following the incident, Manchester United issues a statement promising "strongest possible action" against those who might have sold their ticket to the foreigners.
The statement said, "Only 3,500 away tickets were offered for the match but a significantly large number of Rangers fans could be seen interspersed throughout the stadium, resulting in complaints to the United board and police."
"In anticipation of the risks around tonight's game, we took the strictest possible measures to prevent sales to away fans in home areas," a United spokesperson paid.
"Whilst the unauthorised touting of tickets has become more difficult since our introduction of in-app digital ticketing, it cannot be completely eliminated. All examples of away fans in home areas will be investigated over the coming days, with the strongest possible sanctions taken against the registered holders."