Where to buy old Man United football programmes

Programmes are one of the most common kinds of football collectables. Most of us just buy one at the game and then lose it somewhere, but a significant market exists for soccer memorabilia, and programmes are a great source of sentimental value to collectors. Manchester United programmes are some of the most eagerly sought after, and potentially valuable, programmes out there.

Memorabilia online

A great source of Manchester United football memorabilia can be found online, with several specialist outlets dealing with Man United programmes specifically. Online football programme dealers provide an opportunity for fans to browse at their leisure, safe in the knowledge that they are dealing with someone who knows about their specific club. Good Man United sites include Manchester-united-programmes.co.uk, where customers can browse where supporters can buy copies of United Review, as the programme is called, dating right back to the 1949-50 season. It is an independent site, unconnected to the club, but the enthusiasm and knowledge of those who run the site are clear. There is also an extensive private collection for sale at Manchesterutdprogrammes.com. Stocks can be limited, but the site is potentially a source of specific items for collectors.

Mainstream websites

Some websites such as eBay or Amazon can be a good source of old football programmes, though there is a degree of trust involved in terms of establishing authenticity. A potential buyer is also subject to the whims of what is available at that time, and websites such as these often cannot provide the kind of detail and specificity that the real collector of Man United football programmes is after. Websites aimed specifically at football fans in general can be a treasure trove for fans. Footballzone.co.uk styles itself as the world's largest football memorabilia website. it stocks programmes from many clubs, but specialises in Manchester United football programmes and other memorabilia. Old-football-programmes.co.uk carries a wide range of products, but it is necessary to browse a while until you can find what you are looking for. There is no specific Man United outlook either at this site.

Shops and outlets

Obviously, the best place to get hold of programmes is Old Trafford itself. Although programmes bought on match day can take years to acquire any meaningful value, but copies of programmes can be found in the club's mega store, located in the East Stand at Old Trafford. A small number of programme dealers still deal from traditional shop outlets, though their numbers are in decline since the advent of the Internet. It is also worthwhile checking the specialist football press, such as cult magazine 'When Saturday Comes' for football memorabilia fairs and auctions, which are are held at intervals across the country.