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Manchester United hosts Ramadan Iftar at Old Trafford

Manchester United hosts Ramadan Iftar at Old Trafford
Paul Thompson, Paul Thompson Images / Alamy

Manchester United have become the latest football club to host an Iftar, after Old Trafford welcomed hundreds of fasting Muslims on Tuesday, February.

The Iftar, which is the name given to the evening meal served at sunset during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, was held inside one of the hospitality suites at the club's stadium. The event was organised by Collette Roche, Man Utd's Chief Executive for their new stadium development, and the club's official Muslim Supporters Club.

The attendees were also treated to a surprise appearance from one of the club's muslim players, Nous Mazrouai, who is still managing to compete in the Premier League while fasting.

Mazrouai surprises muslim supporters at Old Trafford

The appearance of Mazrouai at Iftar wasn't a planned one, but it was one that certainly went down well with those in the room.

The whole evening was said to be a great success. Speeches and talks were given about the importance of Ramadan, before attendees prayed and broke their fast after sunset. It was only the second time that an Iftar has been held at Old Trafford, but it's likely to now be part of the calendar each year moving forward.

Asif Mahmud, chair of the Muslim Supporters’ Club, said:

“Hosting Iftar at Old Trafford is incredibly meaningful for Muslim supporters. It sends a powerful message that Manchester United is a club where everyone belongs.

“Ramadan is a time of reflection, gratitude and community, and to break our fast together at the Theatre of Dreams is something many of us never imagined growing up.

“We’re proud to work with the club to create moments like this that strengthen understanding and bring people together. That’s what Manchester United is all about – unity, respect and shared identity.”

FGG says: A club of belonging

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's divisive comments about immigrants ‘colonising' the United Kingdom were not befitting of a man who co-owns a football club that has often led the way in terms of diversity and inclusivity. Perhaps he should attend the next Iftar at Old Trafford to gain more of an understanding of multiculturalism and its benefits.

Andy is a freelance sports writer with ten years of experience covering major sporting events across Europe. He has also been a season ticket holder at Old Trafford since 2008 and has visited over 40 football stadiums in the United Kingdom and abroad following the Reds.

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