Football pundit Gabby Agbonlahor has unleashed a scathing critique of Manchester United fans, expressing frustration over their constant criticism of his views on the Red Devils.
The former Aston Villa player, who retired from professional football before transitioning to a radio pundit role at talkSPORT in 2018, opened up about the backlash he faces from fans during discussions on the Ladbrokes Fanzone (via Manchester Evening News):
“I get a lot of stick from fans just through working on the radio but when you’re on the radio, you’re allowed to be a bit more judgemental and opinionated… There’s a lot more time to fill on radio, and because of my character, and the fact that I’m the kind of person who just says what they think, I end up getting stuck.”
Agbonlahor didn’t mince words when singling out Manchester United supporters as particularly harsh: “I’d say Manchester United fans are the worst for it. Their downfall since Sir Alex Ferguson left has been so dramatic it’s like their fans are still living in the past.
And so when I’m on the radio, I try to explain to them that Manchester United just isn’t the same team they’re used to seeing.”
Despite facing a barrage of abuse from these fans, Agbonlahor remains undeterred, recognizing it as an occupational hazard:
“I get a lot of abuse back from those fans, but I don’t mind it because it’s all part of the job; if you’re going to have big opinions, and have a platform to voice those opinions, you’ve got to take the abuse that comes with it. It’s all part of the job for me.”
Acknowledging the excesses of fan behavior, especially on social media, Agbonlahor reflected on his upbringing in Erdington, a challenging environment that toughened his resolve and thickened his skin.
