Man Utd Faces Mice Infestation at Old Trafford as Food Hygiene Rating Drops

Manchester United are grappling with a mice infestation at Old Trafford, resulting in a significant drop in the stadium's food hygiene rating.

The historic ground, originally built in 1910 and last undergoing major renovations in 2006, has faced mounting issues in recent years. From outdated infrastructure to frequent leaks during heavy rainfall, the stadium's condition continues to highlight its age.

Footage from Ruben Amorim's press conference after United's 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on Sunday showed water dripping from the roof. Now, health inspectors have uncovered further problems, finding evidence of mice activity in a ground-level corporate suite and a kiosk on a concourse selling food to fans. Thankfully, no contamination was found in areas where food is prepared.

According to the Daily Mail, United officials are collaborating with pest control specialists and Trafford Council to address the issue. The problem is believed to stem from Old Trafford's proximity to a canal and railway line, which becomes more pronounced during the colder months as pests seek warmer, sheltered environments. Pest controllers are now visiting the stadium four to five times weekly as part of intensified efforts to resolve the situation.

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Meanwhile, Sir Jim Ratcliffe's commissioned taskforce is assessing the feasibility of either renovating Old Trafford or building a new stadium, underscoring the urgent need for action to modernize the iconic venue.

Manchester United's food hygiene rating has dropped from four stars to two following recent findings, falling well short of the maximum five-star rating held by the vast majority of Premier League clubs.

The club’s hygiene issues have been under scrutiny before. Their rating was slashed to just one star after visitors at a corporate private event were served uncooked chicken. While the rating was later restored to four stars, the discovery of mouse droppings has led to the latest downgrade.

United are reportedly eager to improve their rating to five stars "as soon as possible." A club spokesperson stated: "Manchester United implements a robust pest-control system throughout Old Trafford.

"Multiple weekly checks are made in all catering areas and stringent measures are taken to ensure levels of hygiene and cleanliness are high wherever food is stored, prepared and served. If incidences of this nature do occur at the stadium, immediate and appropriate action is taken."

Trafford Council have confirmed United's hygiene rating has been slashed. A spokesperson for the authority said: "Our environmental health officers gave a food hygiene rating of two following a routine visit. We are now working closely with Manchester United to ensure it complies with the rating and carries out the necessary improvements."