Police on red alert over possibility that rival Man United and Leeds fans could descend on Wembley within 24 hours of each other… should Daniel Farke’s side beat Norwich and reach the Championship play-off final
- Man United will take on Man City in the FA Cup final at Wembley on May 25
- Leeds could also play at Wembley in the Championship play-off final a day later
- Manchester United must play at Wembley for two years, demolish Old Trafford and build a Tottenham-like stadium It all starts! podcast
Police are alert to the prospect of rival Manchester United and Leeds United fans arriving at Wembley within 24 hours of each other.
United will take on neighbors City in the FA Cup final on May 25, while Yorkshire will appear in the Championship play-off final on May 26 when they beat Norwich City at Elland Road on Thursday evening.
Leeds appear favorites as they finished the season three places and 17 points above the Canaries, drawing 0-0 away to Carrow Road in the first leg.
And if they were to secure their place under the arch, it would cause major headaches for officials.
Mail Sport understands the prospect has already been discussed at safety meetings.
Police are on alert for Man United and Leeds fans coming to Wembley later this month
Wembley is now seen as a destination thanks to the boom in hotels, bars and restaurants in its area.
A large number of supporters from both Manchester clubs have already booked rooms for the Saturday evening after the final.
And if Leeds make progress, there are likely to be many more players traveling from Yorkshire to the stadium ahead of their match.
EFL bosses wanted the play-off final, which pits Leeds or Norwich against West Bromwich Albion or Southampton, in the later kick-off, especially as it usually attracts higher viewing figures.
They also warned officials about the potential for Leeds and Manchester United fans to mingle and pointed out that a later kick-off on Sunday would help reduce the risk. However, their pleas seem to fall on deaf ears.
Leeds and United share one of the fiercest rivalries in English football and there have been numerous instances of trouble over the years.
What police described as ‘widespread disorder’ broke out in central Manchester ahead of a match between the two in 2021. Stunned shoppers rushed for cover as brawls spilled onto the streets.
If the scenario plays out, additional police resources will likely be deployed, along with increased security at hotels, bars and restaurants in the shadow of the stadium.
