Man United Fans Warned Of Rome Dangers

Manchester United fans travelling to Rome for the Champions League final next week, have been warned to avoid some of the city's hotspots.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) is warning the supporters due to descend on the city to stay away from areas where they may be targeted by gangs.

Fans have been told not to go by metro to Piazzale Flaminio, use the Ponte Duca D'Aosta bridge or Campo dei Fiori square.

Despite only 19,500 tickets being allocated to United by Uefa, it is understood more than 30,000 will travel to the Italian capital.

Alastair Mackie, FCO sports liaison officer, said: “This is a once in a lifetime trip for many fans and we want them all to have a fantastic time but it is important to make suitable preparations before travel.

"We have been working closely with the Italian authorities and the British Embassy in Rome to ensure that fans have support in Rome and access to all the information they need to ensure a safe trip."

He concluded: "We would encourage fans to visit www.fco.gov.uk/football before their departure."

The Foreign Office is to mount a 36-hour operation so staff will be available before and after the final, and police will cordon off the Piazzale Flaminio, usually a popular meeting place, and the Ponte Duca d'Aosta, a bridge often used by the Ultras on their way to the Stadio Olimpico. This is to ensure rival factions do not meet.

Fans have been urged to use specially provided buses and avoid taxis or public transport to the stadium.

Gianni Alemanno, the Mayor of Rome, admitted yesterday: "The day of the Champions League final will be very delicate. We are working alongside the police to study the best ways to keep disruption to a minimum, while keeping security tight."

(JM/BMcC)