Source: REUTERS/Tyrone Siu
[Saba Sports News] According to British media reports, the viewing figures for Manchester United matches have shown an upward trend, with many rival fans specifically tuning in to watch them lose. Despite the team’s poor performance last season, games involving the club still attracted large audiences, presenting a sharp contrast to the general decline in viewership across the Premier League. Reports indicated earlier this week that Sky Sports’ average audience has dropped by 10%, while TNT Sports also saw a decline. However, despite what was considered the club’s worst season since the inception of the Premier League in 1992, the viewing rates for their matches remained strong. Manchester United is almost certainly the most supported club in England, with surveys showing their supporter base surpassing that of Liverpool and Arsenal. Nevertheless, a broadcasting industry insider suggested that the club’s poor performance may have drawn more rival fans who find a certain satisfaction in watching them struggle. Competitive programming content is considered one of the factors reducing viewership, including more UEFA Champions League matches and increased coverage of Championship games by Sky Sports, leading to a fragmented viewing schedule for fans. Next season may face even greater challenges, as a record nine English teams will participate in European competitions, with six of those in the Champions League.