Tensions ran high among Manchester United staff after YouTuber IShowSpeed, real name Darren Jason Watkins Jr, made an unexpected appearance at the post-FA Cup final celebration last Saturday. The victory over Manchester City was overshadowed by frustration as IShowSpeed attended the after-party at the Marriott Hotel in Mayfair, invited by Alejandro Garnacho.
According to Daily Mail Sport, many of the club’s non-playing staff were disgruntled by IShowSpeed’s presence. Staff members, who were unable to join the festivities at Wembley due to their own event being canceled, felt particularly aggrieved seeing the 19-year-old celebrating with the players. This incident has added to the growing unrest among United’s employees.
Under the new cost-cutting measures imposed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group, the traditional post-final staff party was axed. Previously, staff enjoyed perks such as free tickets, travel, meals, and a post-match party for cup finals. For this final, they were offered only one ticket each and were charged £20 for coach travel, with no complimentary food provided.
Questions have arisen about how IShowSpeed obtained a ticket for the final, as seats in United’s section at Wembley were reserved for season ticket holders who had attended at least five cup games last season. Lacking a season ticket, IShowSpeed reportedly secured his tickets through partners and sponsors.
IShowSpeed’s post-final celebration followed a heated argument with another United fan at Wembley and subsequent abuse from City supporters as he left the stadium. The mood among the staff worsened further on Tuesday when they received an email inviting them to take redundancy. This came after Ratcliffe’s directive for all staff to return to the office by June 1 or “seek alternative employment.” It is anticipated that up to a fifth of the 1,100-strong workforce could be laid off as United seeks to reduce costs.
