International Reds are reunited at Old Trafford

Thursday 27 October 2022 13:31

The dedication and loyalty of our many Manchester United supporters’ clubs was honoured recently, at a special ‘thank you’ dinner at Old Trafford.

There are over 250 supporters’ clubs worldwide, across all continents, and the event was a unique opportunity to bring as many of them together as possible, on the Friday before our home game against Newcastle United. 

Supporters ranging from places as distant as India and Australia were present, and all in attendance were treated to a great range of guests and entertainment. 

Club partners Maui Jim, Chivas Regal and Cadbury rewarded our fans with products, while Remington, Marriott and Paul Smith provided raffle prizes that led to £5,505 being raised for the Manchester United Foundation.

Chief executive Richard Arnold kicked things off in heartfelt style, before some fascinating interviews with John Murtough and Bryan Robson. 

Richard Arnold was proud to honour our supporters' clubs at Old Trafford.
Murtough revealed the intricacies of the transfer window and the instant and positive impact Erik ten Hag made at Carrington, before Robbo took to the stage to vociferous chants of “There’s only one Bryan Robson!” 

Captain Marvel was on fine form, telling comical stories about locking Gordon Strachan in the boot of a car and a memorable friendly at Marine where the Class of ’92 first proved their fearlessness to him. 
John Shiels then gave an inspiring update – and a thank you – on behalf of Manchester United Foundation, while singer Tracey Malone paid tribute to the Busby Babes with a spine-tingling rendition of The Flowers of Manchester. 

With the food and drink flowing, comedian Ashen Akbar kicked off his set, before there was an emotional speech by the Kyiv Reds, who thanked “all British people and people around the world for housing Ukrainian families” and told us about the many Kyiv Reds currently fighting in Ukraine’s battle for democracy and independence. 
John Murtough spoke passionately to the fans about the future of our club.
It was a night that saw fans rekindling old friendships, making new ones and celebrating the diversity and amazing geographical spread of the United fan base. 

Arnold concluded: “It’s an incredible feeling to be up here looking at people who’ve dedicated often nearly a lifetime to organising coming to watch United, not just for themselves but for the people around them. 

“That’s hugely appreciated. That support that we get, home and away, is like no other club. Every club thinks they’re special, but it’s the support that we get that genuinely makes us the biggest club in the world.”
As always, Bryan Robson received a huge ovation from our supporters.

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