An unexpected apology
Frank Ilett, a Manchester United fan known online as United Strand, has been growing his hair since October 5, 2024. He has vowed not to get a haircut until his team wins five Premier League matches in a row. This week, he got an unexpected apology from one of the managers who failed to help him get a trim.
Ilett met former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim at the Portugal Football Summit. Amorim, who is now the manager of AC Milan, recognized the fan and his famous long hair.
According to Ilett, Amorim pointed at his hair and said, "sorry about that!" Ilett shared a photo of the meeting with his 1.5 million Instagram followers, adding that he still has love for the former manager.
The search for five wins
Amorim was sacked by Manchester United in January, just 14 months into his three-year contract. He is not the only manager who has struggled to put together the five-match winning run that Ilett needs. Erik ten Hag and current boss Michael Carrick have also failed to reach the milestone.
United came very close to hitting the target early in Carrick's time in charge. The team secured consecutive victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, Fulham, and Tottenham.
However, the streak came to an end in the fifth match. A 1-1 draw against West Ham sent Ilett back to the beginning of his challenge.
Struggles on the pitch
The wait for a haircut looks set to continue for Ilett. Manchester United have had a difficult season, picking up only seven points from a possible 15. In their last game before the international break, they needed a late goal from Matheus Cunha to rescue a 1-1 draw against Fulham.
While Ilett waits for his team to find their form, his long hair is serving a good cause. The social media star is using his viral challenge to raise money for the Little Princess Trust. The charity provides real hair wigs for children who have lost their hair during cancer treatment.
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