Football fans expressed their discontent on social media following the sight of numerous empty seats at Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium during their recent match against Aston Villa. Despite the high stakes, with both teams vying for Champions League qualification, the stadium was not filled to capacity. Manchester City secured a 2-1 victory, thanks to a late goal by Matheus Nunes.
The issue of ticket pricing took center stage, with many fans attributing the lack of attendance to high ticket costs. William Ash, a supporter, shared his view from the stands on social media, highlighting the empty seats around him. The Football Away Days account echoed his sentiments, questioning whether fans were being priced out of attending games, given the ticket prices exceeding £70.
William Ash said, “Nice work City,” sarcastically. The Football Away Days account continued, “Tickets cost over 70 quid for tonight’s game at the Etihad against Aston Villa. Are fans being priced out of going to games? It’s a shame to see so many empty seats, but at that price, can you blame them?”
Fans also protested outside the stadium, distributing leaflets that detailed the high cost of matchday tickets, starting at £71 for adults. The sight of empty seats on television prompted further criticism, with fans urging others to highlight the issue through videos.
One fan exclaimed, “It looked terrible on TV to see so many empty seats. Keep pushing this with videos to highlight the outrageous prices these clubs want to charge now.”
Some fans defended the situation, explaining that the game was initially sold out but was rescheduled to a Tuesday night, leading to season ticket holders putting their tickets on exchange. The club then attempted to resell them at higher prices.
A City fan explained, “For context, this game was sold out. It was then rearranged to a Tuesday night in Easter holidays so season ticket holders who can’t go put their ticket on the exchange, the club attempt to resell them and make a profit.”
In response to the growing concern over ticket prices, Manchester City announced that ticket prices would remain unchanged for the 2025/26 season.
A statement read, “Manchester City can confirm that general admission season ticket and Premier League match-by-match ticket prices will be frozen for the 2025/26 season.”
The debate over ticket pricing continues to be a significant issue for Premier League clubs, with fans calling for more affordable options to ensure the stadiums remain filled and vibrant.
**Tags:** Manchester City-Club, Aston Villa-Club, 2024-2025-Season, Ticket-Prices, Fan-Reaction
