In a groundbreaking initiative, the Foundations of Liverpool FC and Manchester United have united to launch an education program aimed at addressing tragedy-related abuse within football culture. The program, which seeks to raise awareness about the impact of such abuse and advocate for its cessation, was unveiled in anticipation of the upcoming Premier League clash between the two clubs at Old Trafford on April 7.
Schoolchildren from Liverpool and Manchester were invited to participate in the inaugural session held at Lord Derby School in Huyton. Led by football legends Phil Thompson and Wes Brown, who shared firsthand insights into the profound repercussions of the Hillsborough and Munich disasters, the event underscored the need for solidarity in condemning tragedy-related chanting.
Developed in collaboration with the Premier League, the initiative is poised to become an integral component of the Foundations’ ongoing outreach efforts across Merseyside and Greater Manchester. Both Liverpool and Manchester United have long been advocates for eradicating tragedy-related abuse, with managers Jürgen Klopp and Erik ten Hag previously issuing a joint statement denouncing such behavior.
Emphasizing the significance of education in combating tragedy chanting, Matt Parish, CEO of LFC Foundation, stressed the joint commitment of the two clubs to effecting meaningful change. Similarly, John Shiels, CEO of Manchester United Foundation, underscored the importance of breaking the cycle of abuse through informed dialogue and proactive intervention.
The event garnered support from prominent local leaders, including Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, signaling a united front against tragedy-related abuse. With a firm resolve to address this pressing issue, Liverpool FC and Manchester United stand poised to inspire positive change both on and off the pitch.
