FC United think they could be a model for other clubs up to League 1 level who need not turn to wealthy individuals but could raise funds from their own supporters.
FC United think they could be a model for other clubs up to League 1 level who need not turn to wealthy individuals but could raise funds from their own supporters.
No one wants to rain on their parade when they are about to make their debut in the first round of the FA Cup and there is no doubt that their activists show real dedication and enthusiasm. But just consider a few factors that make them different from other clubs:
- Their dynamic is generated in part by a real anger at what has happened to Manchester United under the Glazers. A rather similar drive can be seen at phoenix clubs like AFC Wimbledon.
- Many United supporters treat FC United as a kind of reserve team.
- They haven’t actually raised the £1.5m they need yet.
- Their strategy depends on being given a ground by the City Council at a peppecorn rent who are also giving them some money, a model more common in continental Europe.
If, for example, their hosts on Saturday – Rochdale – ran into financial trouble would the same approach work there?