'High-risk' Man Utd fans arrested over organised mass brawl in crackdown ahead of Manchester derby against rivals City

Greater Manchester police (GMP) raided several properties on Sunday morning and arrested suspects in relation to an organised brawl between fans before the Europa League match against Dutch side Twente in December, The Times reports. A group of around 50 hooligans wearing balaclavas met for a prearranged fight the day before the European clash. The Dutch supporters were then reportedly followed to a nearby pub, where the violence kicked off again.

The clampdown comes in anticipation of the Manchester derby on Sunday and while the suspects - all men between 20 and 64 - will likely be released before then, GMP hope they have sent a clear message on football violence.

"Intelligence was gathered that a targeted and organised large-scale fight took place over two months ago in Lower Broughton in Salford before heading towards the city centre," a statement from GMP read. "With the Manchester derby only days away, this is another strong reminder that violence of any sort, whether it’s linked to football or not, will not be tolerated."

Chief Superintendent Colette Rose added: "With another big fixture coming this weekend, we want to send a strong message and reassurance that our specialised officers will be deployed to ensure you remain safe and peace is maintained, so you can enjoy the game. On occasions when enforcement is needed, those who are intent on causing harm will have to answer for their actions."

United, who have lost two games in a row, are in action against Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League on Thursday and then visit Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.