“A ‘Super League’ based on a closed shop of self-selected wealthy clubs goes against everything football, and Manchester United, should stand for.

“When Sir Matt Busby led us into the European Cup in the 1950s, the modern Manchester United was founded in the tragedy and then triumph that followed.

“To even contemplate walking away from that competition would be a betrayal of everything this club has ever stood for. We urge everyone involved in this proposal including Manchester United to immediately withdraw from this proposal.”