Kath Phipps to be remembered this weekend

Friday 06 December 2024 17:40

Manchester United’s men’s and women’s teams will pay tributes to the late Kath Phipps around this weekend’s respective fixtures.

It was announced on Thursday that our beloved colleague has passed away at the age of 85, prompting a wave of heartfelt messages from Reds of past and present

Kath joined United in September 1968 as a switchboard operator and later became our training-ground receptionist, as well as a fixture at Old Trafford’s directors’ entrance. Her personality and warmth left a positive impression on everybody who was lucky enough to receive her welcome. 

A book of condolence was opened at Carrington on Friday morning, allowing our players and staff to write personal messages to a true United legend.

THIS WEEKEND’S PLANS

Ahead of Saturday’s Premier League kick-off against Nottingham Forest, our men’s team will gather around the centre circle to take part in a moment’s applause.

Ruben Amorim's squad will also wear black armbands for the match. 

Our women’s team will pay the same tributes before and during Sunday’s WSL match against Liverpool at Leigh Sports Village. 

Fans at both fixtures are invited to join the applauses to remember our dear Kath.

‘THE IMAGE OF THIS CLUB’

Kath was unfortunately not on reception when Ruben arrived at Carrington in November, due to ill health, but our head coach was lucky enough to meet her during an educational visit in 2018. 

As he explained during our interview on Friday afternoon, Kath made a huge impression on him and he is very much aware of her legacy.

“I met her,” Amorim told us. “It’s a strange thing because I met her when I was here doing the internship, and I remember going inside the building and seeing the lovely Kathy. 

Tributes pouring in for Kath Phipps

 Article

The United family is reacting to the news that our beloved colleague has sadly passed away.

“I think she is the image of this club. Friendly, very professional, very respectful, so she is a big loss and you can feel it today in Carrington. 

“You can feel it; everyone talks about this situation, and it is a sad day for us.”

 To read more about Kath, visit our round-up of tributes from United legends including David Beckham, Rio Ferdinand, Juan Mata, Peter Schmeichel and more. 
A tribute to Kath Phipps Video

A tribute to Kath Phipps

A lifelong Red, Kath Phipps worked at the club for over 55 years, and her contribution soared beyond any job title...

This weekend's matches: