Manchester United have made their stance clear following allegations that Grimsby Town fielded an ineligible player during their Carabao Cup third-round clash, which ended in a dramatic penalty shootout defeat for United.
After the match, reports emerged suggesting Grimsby may have breached competition rules by using a player who should not have been eligible. The English Football League (EFL) handed Manchester United three days to decide whether to formally lodge an appeal or let the matter rest.
According to a reliable insider, United have opted against appealing the result. The reasoning behind the decision is that even if Grimsby were found guilty, the only possible punishment under current regulations would be a financial fine, not expulsion from the competition. With this in mind, United felt that pursuing an appeal would be unnecessary.
The source explained: “Manchester United reviewed the matter and understood that the rules do not allow for Grimsby to be removed from the competition. The maximum penalty is a fine, and Grimsby have already been sanctioned. That left United with no sporting benefit in taking the case further.”
Furthermore, insiders revealed that United’s leadership also considered the spirit of the competition in their decision. The club reportedly feels that Grimsby’s players and supporters earned their victory on the pitch, and that recognition of that effort was more important than chasing technicalities.
“United see pride in accepting the result,” the source added. “The players want to fight for the next opportunity on the pitch rather than in a courtroom.”
While the decision ends speculation of an appeal, it reinforces Manchester United’s determination to focus on their upcoming fixtures, leaving the Carabao Cup behind them.
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