Manchester City fans are set to boycott the Community Shield.
The defending Premier League Champions and FA Cup winners take on League runners up Arsenal. The game will be played at Wembley on 6th August with a kick off time of 17:30 UK time.
However, following a season full of travel for the blues and with the FA hosting the Manchester Derby Cup final at Wembley; understandably fans are disappointed with the fixture release.
City fans have taken to social media to share their frustration.
London is a nightmare to get to from Manchester. While trains are less that adequate, prices are extortionate.
UEFA had to be called out by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham earlier in the week. Will someone step in and call out the FA this time?
In a statement, City supporter group 1894 said:
“By Boycotting this fixture, we aim to send a strong message to the FA and itv about the impact scheduling has on fans.”
City supporter group @WeAre1894 have called on City fans to boycott the Community Shield match against Arsenal on August 6th over scheduling. Fans asked to instead donate to @MCFCfoodbank or other local causes. Full statement below #mcfc pic.twitter.com/MA5vs73pAL
— Alex Brotherton (@alex_brotherton) June 17, 2023
What can City fans do?
There have been calls to donate ticket money to local charities rather than buying tickets and attending the game.
As a result, alternative ideas have circulated social media that could see Manchester City fans raise up to £60,000 for local Manchester based charities.
Meanwhile others are donating directly to @MCFCfoodbank who have created a just giving page.
While the idea grand and the concerns are valid, some fans worry about being “laughed” at by other fans.
I’m angry about 7.30 ko. But this boycott is a bad idea on so many levels.
Charity will lose money.
Will split City fans. Those who go will be made to feel guilty.
It will fall apart. Make us a laughing stock.
It won’t work.
I’m all for protest, but it has to be constructive. https://t.co/rMGiw61Bst— Spike 💙 🐝 (@Spike______) June 17, 2023
Football is commonly referred to as the “working class” sport. It’s inclusive. You could be arguing with an opposition fan one minute, and the next you come together in respect or honour of the same cause.
Besides, did people not laugh at Martin Luther King as he stood up and shared his dream? Did people not laugh when Emmeline Pankhurst stood up to pave the way for a more inclusive society for women?
Football is nothing without the fans.
Nevertheless, it is for each Manchester City support to decide what they will do for the Community Shield.
Win; lose; protest; or Wembley trip – COME ON CITY!
