Mice droppings were discovered at Old Trafford last month during a routine health inspection. While none were found near food, Manchester United has been forced to act.
Manchester United has announced that it will take proactive steps to improve hygiene standards at Old Trafford following a recent decline in its food hygiene rating due to a mice infestation. In November, environmental health officials discovered mice droppings during an inspection, causing the club's rating to drop from four stars to two. The maximum rating is five stars, and the club is committed to quickly regaining that status.
In response to this issue, Manchester United is working with a pest control contractor and the local council to implement effective measures. While evidence of mice activity was found in a ground-level corporate suite and a fan service kiosk, it is reassuring to note that no droppings were detected in any kitchens or food preparation areas.
Old Trafford continues to have issues
Manchester United has reaffirmed its strong commitment to hygiene and safety. The club is focused on quickly regaining its five-star hygiene rating, emphasizing that cleanliness is a top priority. Old Trafford benefits from pest control professionals who visit the venue four to five times a week, allowing the club to address any pest issues promptly.
In a recent statement, the club said, “Manchester United implements a comprehensive pest-control system throughout Old Trafford. We conduct multiple weekly checks in all catering areas and enforce strict measures to maintain high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in all food storage, preparation, and serving areas. If any incidents occur, we take immediate and appropriate action.“
It's important to note that just a year ago, the club faced a serious issue when its hygiene rating dropped from five stars to one after guests were served raw chicken during a corporate event. The club responded quickly to resolve the situation and has since regained a four-star rating.
Amazing scenes at Old Trafford as the roof starts leaking during Ruben Amorim’s press conference.
I can confirm @sistoney67 managed to move out of the way from the majority of the drips.
A new meaning to the leaks at #mufc. pic.twitter.com/wt9E7NF6BW
— Sanny Rudravajhala (@Sanny_Rudra) December 22, 2024
Manchester United battle the drip
Sadly, the hygiene rating isn't the only issue for Manchester United. While we got used to scenes of the club's leaking roof last season, that's clearly expanded into the press room. During a recent press conference, water was observed dripping through the media auditorium ceiling. Ultimately, these issues will always be 10x worse for Manchester United, as with their huge popularity comes an even closer focus on the club's actions.
FGG says: Old Trafford might be falling down
While fans might sing this song somewhat ironically, it's clear to see that Old Trafford is starting to show signs of wear and tear. Dreams of a Wembley of the North might still be some way off, but something needs to happen in the near future. However, fans have expressed a desire to stay at Old Trafford, rather than construct a new stadium.
Fans don't need to see even more bad headlines with on-field displays not leaving much to be desired. Sadly, reports suggest the club's new owners are not ones for spending money, so it remains to be seen if the club would actually do the work required to fix the problems at the stadium.