Fans prioritize affordable tickets and youth investment

Football fans have shared their dreams about what they would do if they could be the chairman of their club for a day. A recent poll of 2,000 enthusiasts revealed their top wishes for improving their teams. Many fans want to see lower ticket prices and more investment in youth academies. They believe clubs should also offer free tickets for those in need and cap players’ salaries. Some playful responses included naming a stand after themselves or erecting a statue of their favorite player. The survey showed a strong desire for clubs to spend money more wisely. About 41% of fans want bigger investments in community initiatives, and 34% want improvements to stadiums. Mental health services were important to 33% of those surveyed. Sustainability is also a big concern, with 78% of fans saying clubs should prioritize eco-friendly practices. Many support the idea of fan advisory boards to increase involvement in club decisions, similar to a model used in Germany. The poll highlighted 15 specific things fans would change if they had control. These include installing solar panels, improving recycling facilities, and even adding live music during games. Nearly half of respondents said they would not support partnerships with fossil fuel companies. Fans expressed a hope for more sustainable practices by 2030, including solar-powered stadiums and better recycling options. The CEO of the company that conducted the poll said it shows fans care deeply about many aspects of their clubs, not just winning games.