Man Utd offer fans ‘alternative arrangements’ for FA Cup final vs Man City due to rail strikes

Manchester United have announced they will offer ‘alternative arrangements’ for fans travelling to Wembley for the 2023 FA Cup final next month.

The Red Devils are set to face Manchester City on 3 June with United on for a cup double this season while Pep Guardiola’s side may be aiming to complete the treble of Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup. But supporters were left frustrated by news that Avanti West Coast, the main train provider between Manchester and London, plan to strike on the day of the final.

It will mean widespread travel disruption for fans making the journey from Manchester, but United confirmed on Wednesday that they will be running a bus service to Wembley.

“The club will provide coaches priced at a subsidised cost of £50 per adult and £40 for Under-16s for the journey from Old Trafford to Wembley Stadium on 3 June for the first all-Manchester FA Cup final,” United said via their official website. “The additional coaches will cost £60 per adult with departure time and location, as well as concession prices, being confirmed at the point of booking.

“The club will continue to monitor the situation, however we are now satisfied there is enough coach provision to cope with the expected demand.”

Meanwhile, City will also be running buses for supporters from East Didsbury Metrolink Park & Ride and Radcliffe Metrolink Park & Ride. “Official Club coach travel will be available to purchase. A return journey will be available priced at £50 per adult, £40 for juniors,” the club said via their website.

As for the FA, they will be providing a coach operation from Manchester Aytoun Street. Buses will cost £60 per adult, £40 for under 16s. Via their website, the FA said: “All supporters travelling to this year’s FA Cup Final are advised not to travel by National Rail and consider alternative travel arrangements.”