A Man Utd security scare unfolded during their recent Premier League match against Aston Villa when their dressing room was reportedly bugged. Aston Villa has launched an investigation after a fan managed to secretly place a recording device inside the away changing room before the game on October 6.
According to The Sun, the individual, allegedly a Manchester United supporter, hid a mobile phone in the visiting dressing room at Villa Park two days before the match. The device, capable of being activated remotely by calling it, was cleverly concealed and placed out of sight of United’s players and staff.
The prankster reportedly dialed into the device just before head coach Erik ten Hag delivered his pre-match talk, capturing key tactical instructions. Aston Villa immediately started an investigation upon discovering the breach. Astonishingly, the individual returned the next day to retrieve the device.
The recording reportedly reveals Ten Hag’s team talk and detailed player instructions as he aimed to recover from the team’s previous 3-0 defeat to Tottenham.
Repeat pranks raise Premier League security concerns
This incident adds to growing concerns over Premier League security, as it marks another successful breach targeting high-profile teams. The bugging prank seems to have been carried out by a fan seeking to hear Ten Hag’s instructions rather than gaining any serious advantage.
Earlier this year, another prankster managed to board Manchester United’s team bus after their 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace in May. YouTuber Lizwani slipped onto the bus before eventually being escorted off, sparking warnings from league officials about the rise in such security breaches. Clubs were urged to remain vigilant against social media-driven stunts aimed at gaining attention.
Goalless draw adds pressure on Ten Hag
The match between Man Utd and Aston Villa ended in a goalless draw, leaving Erik ten Hag under scrutiny as his future at Old Trafford continues to be questioned. Although the Dutchman was pleased with his team’s performance, the result followed a dramatic 3-3 draw against Porto in the Europa League, where Harry Maguire’s stoppage-time header salvaged a point for United.
Despite the draw, Man Utd security concerns continue to dominate the headlines. Ten Hag is expected to remain in charge for their next Premier League match against Brentford on October 19. Last season, United secured a late victory against Brentford thanks to Scott McTominay’s brace, and the club will hope for a similar result to relieve pressure on the manager.
Meanwhile, discussions among United’s board members about Ten Hag’s future have been ongoing. Though no clear succession plan has emerged, Thomas Tuchel has been linked to the role, though he is also a candidate for the England national team head coach position.
