Cheshire Police have launched an investigation into an attack on the home of Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.
Videos shared on social media on Tuesday night appear to show hooded people outside a property in a Cheshire village throwing flares over the gate, while graffiti was reportedly sprayed on a fence.
United have condemned the attack and threatened life bans and prosecution for those involved.
“At around 10.45pm on Tuesday, 28 January, Cheshire police were notified of an incident of criminal damage that had taken place earlier this evening with a large group targeting a property in the Nether Peover area,” said a police statement.
“Thankfully no-one was harmed and officers will liaise with security officials over the coming days to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and identify those involved.”
Woodward, who is married with two young children, is reported to have not been at home at the time of the attack.
United’s statement condemned the “unwarranted attack”.
“We know that the football world will unite behind us as we work with the police to identify the perpetrators of this unwarranted attack,” the club said.
“Anybody found guilty of a criminal offence, or found to be trespassing on this property, will be banned for life by the club and may face prosecution.
“Fans expressing opinion is one thing, criminal damage and intent to endanger life is another. There is simply no excuse for this.”
Mino Raiola, the agent of United midfielder Paul Pogba, has had his disagreements with Woodward in the past over transfer dealings but gave his full support to the Red Devils chief.
“If anyone has used me as a reason to create any anger towards Ed, they are totally in the wrong because my relationship with Ed is good, it is professional and we don’t always need to agree but that’s normal,” he told The Athletic.
“What happened last night is not normal. I condemn any type of violence. These guys are morons and this is criminal behaviour.
“I totally disapprove. This cannot be happening to a man — going to his private house and menacing him and his family. Are we totally crazy? Football is not that important in life.
“I am behind Ed 100 per cent and I think everybody in football should stand in support, whether you agree with him or not.
“It’s not important if you agree with him or not, like in business — this is not business, it’s violence and everybody should stand with him. We have to condemn it.”
