New Man United signing Mason Mount was the latest player to be accosted by autograph hunters wanting him to sign multiple items, which could then be sold for easy money online.
A video of the incident has been posted to social media:
Mason Mount has done nothing wrong here.
Players are human beings, and they’re entitled to privacy. #MUFC
pic.twitter.com/NIn3rmN4tu— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) July 14, 2023
Mount handled the situation well but it is an issue clubs need to fix to protect their players.
The Telegraph quoted a Manchester United source who has suggested action could soon be taken against such perpetrators:
“Unfortunately this kind of situation has become far too common. It’s the last thing Mason deserves after being so friendly with everyone he has come across since joining United,” the source said.
“Professional autograph hunters are regularly pressuring United’s players to sign large quantities of items that they then sell for hundreds of pounds. It has become an everyday occurrence and a major problem at Carrington.
“It is becoming really dangerous and you have to worry that it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.
“It also means that young fans, who just want to interact with their heroes, often miss out because players can’t stop to take pictures with them without having to engage with the groups.
“It’s a real frustration for everyone, security staff are in regular dialogue with the players around how to stop the problem.
“Action will definitely start to be taken if it continues to persist.”
