Manchester United will issue lifetime bans to anyone found guilty of targeting Ed Woodward’s home during a night of angry protests.
A flare was reported to have been thrown at the executive vice chairman’s Cheshire mansion last night and it is claimed fences were daubed with graffiti.
Video footage on social media appeared to show two people wearing hoodies and balaclavas outside his gated property — although it is claimed more were involved.
Woodward and his family were not present at the time.
Police have launched an investigation, while United were quick to condemn the actions. “We know the football world will unite behind us as we work with the police to identify the perpetrators of this unwarranted attack,” read a statement.
“Anybody found guilty of a criminal offence, or found to be trespassing, will be banned for life. There is no excuse for this.”
Tensions have risen over the running of the club, with a lack of January signings adding to the unrest. Last night’s incident came as United reached a breakthrough over a deal for Bruno Fernandes. The Sporting Lisbon midfielder was today expected to complete deal which could rise to £68m.
United will aim to summon the spirit of Paris to reach the Carabao Cup Final.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side face the daunting task of overcoming a 3-1 first leg defeat in tonight’s semi-final second leg against Manchester City at the Etihad.
Solskjaer hopes memories of last season’s Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain — when United won 3-1 in Paris — will provide inspiration.
Solskjaer says he will “go into the memory bank and think PSG”.
