Manchester United step up security after recent European trouble as club install new cameras at Old Trafford

  • During a Europa League game, Saint-Etienne fans threw objects at home crowd 
  • Club investigated using netting to stop it from happening, but decided against it
  • Instead, Old Trafford bosses have installed state-of-the-art cameras for security
  • New equipment can zoom in on potential areas of trouble to catch culprits 

Manchester United have installed state-of-the-art cameras to improve security at Old Trafford — after ruling out bringing in netting at the venue.

The club investigated introducing large swathes of netting to stop away fans launching objects at home supporters after issues at recent European matches.

However, they decided against doing so due to the layout of the stadium and the fact that it could block fans' view.

Flares are a growing problem for stadiums in England as this scene at Old Trafford shoes 

Saint-Etienne fans prompted Manchester United to rethink their security ahead of next season

Instead, United have brought in cameras which can zoom in on potential areas of trouble and ensure those causing issues can be identified.


The club acted following the behaviour of Saint-Etienne supporters in February's Europa League match.

United officials said of the trouble that the French club's supporters were 'some of the most challenging we have hosted in recent years'.

They added that the visiting fans were hostile to both United stewards and the 30 that had crossed the Channel with them.

A large number of flares were set off — despite an operation that included searches and detection dogs — prompting widespread criticism.

United say the cameras will lower 'the risk of missile throwing and pyrotechnic activation'.

United chiefs have installed new state-of-the-art cameras at Old Trafford that can zoom in tight

United chiefs have installed new state-of-the-art cameras at Old Trafford that can zoom in tight

Meanwhile, Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini has touted a possible move to China in the future.

Fellaini has just had a 12-month extension on his contract triggered at Old Trafford after emerging as a key player under Jose Mourinho.

However, the Belgium midfielder told VTM News: 'In China? Why not? I'm a Manchester United player, but I do not rule out such a transfer in the future.'

Saint-Etienne fans smuggled a large amount of flares into the stadium in a game last season

Saint-Etienne fans threw objects at home support and United considered installing nets

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