As Man Utd looks to rebound from a lackluster season, their fans continue to show unwavering support, filling the historic Old Trafford to nearly capacity. According to a recent Uefa report, Manchester United boasted the highest aggregate attendance in domestic league football among all European men’s clubs during the 2023-24 season. The Red Devils’ total attendance of 1,397,148 was the highest of all European teams at home, despite finishing eighth last season – their lowest finish in Premier League history.
This report, part of the ‘European Club Talent and Competition Landscape,’ provides insight into the state of European football attendance. It’s no surprise that the Premier League dominated the list, with several teams boasting impressive attendance numbers. Manchester United’s numbers are all the more impressive considering their lackluster performance on the pitch.
European Club Attendance: A Breakdown of the Numbers
When looking at the numbers, it becomes clear that Manchester United’s fans are some of the most dedicated in Europe. While Borussia Dortmund may have had the highest average attendance in home league matches, with an impressive 81,305 per Bundesliga match, United’s overall attendance was unmatched. Dortmund’s numbers were boosted by six home Champions League matches, as the team reached the final of the competition, ultimately losing to Real Madrid.
Other teams, such as AC Milan, also boasted impressive attendance numbers. The Italian outfit ranked second for overall attendance, with an aggregate home attendance of 1,860,964. United ranked third for home attendances in all competitions with a total of 1,834,291.
The Premier League as a whole was the best-attended league, with 14.7 million people going to games. Although there was a 4% drop in Premier League attendances for the 2023-24 season from the previous year – the average stadium capacity had decreased by more than 5%. This minor setback doesn’t seem to have affected Manchester United’s loyal fanbase, however.
Women’s Football Attendance on the Rise
Women’s football attendance is also on the rise, with top flights across Europe seeing a significant increase in attendance. English teams were at the forefront of this, with Arsenal boasting a total home league attendance for the season of 329,986 – more than 200,000 clear of every other European club.
Manchester United, Barcelona, and Chelsea were the three other sides with total season attendances over 100,000 for league matches. The growth in women’s football attendance is a heartening sign for the sport, which has long been overshadowed by its male counterpart.
Women’s Champions League Attendance
Interestingly, the Champions League final between Barcelona and Lyon in Bilbao was the fifth-best attended women’s match in Europe last season, watched by 50,827 people. Arsenal’s home Women’s Super League matches against Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Liverpool were the four to beat that mark.
As women’s football continues to grow in popularity, it’s clear that teams are taking steps to increase attendance. This is reflected in the numbers, which show a rise of 38% in attendances for women’s top flights across Europe.
Impact on the Premier League
The impact of Manchester United’s attendance numbers on the Premier League as a whole cannot be overstated. The club’s loyal fanbase is a major draw, attracting new fans to the sport and showcasing the Premier League’s global appeal.
While the numbers may be skewed by the popularity of Manchester United, other teams, such as West Ham, Tottenham, and Liverpool, also boasted impressive attendance figures. The Premier League’s overall attendance numbers were aided by these teams’ strong support.
Furthermore, the Championship – the second tier of English football – saw an average match attendance of over 23,000. This makes the Championship the seventh-best attended league in Europe during the 2023-24 season.
Factors Contributing to the Numbers
So, what factors have contributed to Manchester United’s impressive attendance numbers? There are several factors at play, not least the club’s rich history and global appeal.
The recent resurgence of the Premier League as a whole also contributes to the numbers. With more competitive matches and exciting newcomers to the league, fans are eager to attend games. This is reflected in the increased attendance numbers across the league.
The fact that the club is playing at Old Trafford, an iconic stadium steeped in history, also contributes to the numbers. The electric atmosphere and excitement of playing at such an historic venue are undeniable draws for fans.
A Bright Future for Manchester United?
As the 2023-24 season draws to a close, Manchester United looks to the future with optimism. With a new season on the horizon, fans will be eager to see how the team will perform on the pitch.
While the attendance numbers are undeniably impressive, they also pose a challenge for the team. With such high expectations from fans, pressure to perform can be intense. Nevertheless, the dedication and loyalty of Manchester United’s fanbase are testaments to the team’s enduring appeal.
With a new season on the horizon, only time will tell if Manchester United can build on their momentum and deliver a winning performance. One thing is clear, however – the team’s fans will be there every step of the way, cheering them on to victory.
As the Manchester United faithful look to the future, one thing is clear: their loyalty and dedication are unwavering. Whether or not the team will deliver on the pitch remains to be seen. One thing is certain – with their impressive attendance numbers, Manchester United will be a force to be reckoned with in the seasons to come.