Old Trafford, Manchester United’s iconic stadium, is reportedly battling a rodent infestation following the discovery of mouse droppings in food kiosks and corporate suites. The unsettling revelation came to light during a hygiene inspection, which saw the venue’s rating drop from four stars to just two stars. This marks a significant setback for the club, which only recently climbed from a one-star rating last year.
Hygiene Concerns Unveiled
Inspectors uncovered rodent droppings in a concourse food kiosk and a ground-level corporate suite, raising alarm over the stadium’s sanitation. Fans have also reported seeing a dead rat beneath a seat during a recent match. The infestation is believed to be linked to Old Trafford’s location between a railway line and a canal, areas prone to rodent activity.
The club has since partnered with pest control experts, scheduling up to five visits per week in an effort to restore their hygiene standards. United is aiming to achieve the coveted five-star rating held by most Premier League clubs.
Previous Sanitation Issues
This isn’t Old Trafford’s first hygiene controversy. Last year, the stadium received a one-star rating after guests allegedly fell ill from raw chicken served at an event. Although United improved to a four-star rating by November, the latest rodent-related issues highlight ongoing challenges.
Stadium Infrastructure in Decline
The hygiene crisis adds to growing criticism of Old Trafford’s aging infrastructure. The “Theatre of Dreams” has been plagued by water leaks during press conferences and games, sparking concerns over its suitability as a modern football venue. Fans have long called for renovations, with some even suggesting the historic stadium should be replaced entirely.
Future Prospects
With British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent investment in Manchester United, discussions are underway about constructing a new £2 billion stadium and revitalizing the surrounding area. This could potentially mean the demolition of Old Trafford—a move that would mark the end of an era.
On-Pitch Struggles Reflect Off-Pitch Issues
The rodent problem mirrors United’s struggles on the field. The Red Devils are currently 13th in the Premier League table, having lost four of their last six matches, including a 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth. With challenging fixtures against Newcastle, Liverpool, and Arsenal on the horizon, the club faces a daunting task to turn their season around.
A Call for Change
As United grapples with both on-pitch and off-pitch woes, the need for transformation is more apparent than ever. Fans and stakeholders alike hope that addressing these pressing issues will pave the way for a brighter future for the club.