Manchester United admit 2,000 Galatasaray fans were allowed to access home section at Old Trafford
- Published
Mauro Icardi scored a late winner for Galatasaray at Manchester United
Manchester United say around 2,000 Galatasaray fans watched their side's Champions League victory from home sections of Old Trafford earlier this month.
The Turkish side secured their first ever win on English soil, and pockets of their supporters could been seen celebrating during the game and after full-time.
United have been heavily criticised for the "unacceptable" number of away supporters who purchased tickets in home areas of the ground.
The fresh information has been released following the club's latest fans forum, which was held on 10 October.
United's director of supporter services Sam Kelleher confirmed the 2,000 figure, which is as many fans as Galatasaray had in the official away end.
United said that some Galatasaray fans were refused entry to the stadium, but those who were able to enter the home sections of the stadium were not removed because "forced ejection can pose risks," according to chief operating officer Collette Roche.
The forum was also told there were "no reported instances of anyone being hurt or assaulted".
Roche has previously apologised to United fans and acknowledged some "felt unsafe" as huge numbers of Galatasaray fans were seen in areas outside the stadium normally occupied by those backing the hosts.
In their statements, United officials reiterated positions previously taken in an email to season ticket holders and members, claiming that many of the tickets which ended up in the hands of Galatasaray fans were sold to a 'bot' which made it appear they were being purchased by genuine supporters.
The 20-time English champions also said that the number of more expensive executive tickets has not been increased, and that tickets donated to their Foundation by fans unable to use them had not been sold at inflated prices.
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