Lebanese Reds in Turkey

How many of your members are travelling to Turkey?
All in all we will have at least 18 Lebanese Manchester United fans heading to Istanbul. As soon as the draw was made, it was clear we would try to arrange a trip to Turkey. The only worry was getting tickets to the game but being members of an official supporters' club has made things easier.

What will the journey involve?
It's a two-hour flight from Beirut to Istanbul. It's a shorter trip compared to Manchester, which requires at least seven hours' travel. Since we've already qualified many have rendered this fixture almost 'useless', but to some of the fans going with us this might be their only chance to see United. Lebanese people don't need a visa to visit Turkey, so it makes it more accessible than Manchester.

Have any of your members been lucky enough to make it to Old Trafford?
Yes, quite a few. Some are privileged enough to call it their second home. Many, however, have not yet experienced that unrivaled thrill but we’re determined to make their dreams come true. In May 2011, we organised a trip and watched Chicharito fire United into a first-minute lead against Chelsea. It was an unforgettable trip and a match that helped secure the 19th title.

How passionate about United are your members?
Many of our fans tend to send in pictures of their bedrooms or Manchester United shrines with posters, wallpaper and replica shirts. A couple even have United-related tattoos. One fan named his baby Ryan after Ryan Giggs.

What do you have planned in Istanbul apart from the match? What will you do in the city?
Apart from the game and hopefully bumping into a few United players and Sir Alex the plan is simple: