STRETFORD Enders have had little in the way of half-time comfort since the famous stand was turned into an all-seater in 1993.
A pint in a plastic glass, a lukewarm pie and the chance to crowd around one or two TVs to see the highlights is about all that’s been on offer for the last 32 years.
But the wait for comfort is finally over as normal Manchester United fans are benefiting from the club’s decision to relocate 850 executive seats at £3,000-a-season out of the Stretford End.
This left the International Suite empty, so the club has now allowed normal fans access to the suite which has a maximum capacity of 639 fans.
The suite features plasma TVs and its walls are adorned with pictures of legendary United players who have represented their country at senior level.
Most importantly, it features more bar staff and plenty of seating to allow fans to relax during half time.
One fan told The Sun: “I went to get a pint as normal and saw a set of double doors open. I looked in and it was like seeing Narnia.
“A nice looking bar where you could actually get served before the start of the second half and some seats to perch on.
“It must be the first time in recent history that normal fans have benefitted over the needs of corporate day-trippers.”
United agreed in January 2023 to remove the corporate seats from the Stretford End following discussions with supporters and its Fan Advisory Board.
Fans first raised the issue in 2018 pointing out that United was the only club to install executive seats in the loudest area of their stadium.
Opening the International Suite is just the beginning if United’s ambitious plans are anything to go by.
By the start of the 2030/31 season, the Red Devils are aiming to have moved into a brand new 100,000-seater stadium.
Plans were announced earlier this year in a move which promises to revamp the entire supporter experience.
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