Hagrid in the making - win, so I can get a haircut!

Ask any Manchester United supporter about the past year, and they’ll tell you just how grim it’s been. But for Frank Ilett, the club’s struggles have been a literal weight on his head. On October 5, 2024, Frank set himself a quirky challenge: no haircuts until United secured five consecutive wins.

With the team barely stringing two victories together last season, Frank—the man behind The United Strand—is now more than 10 months in, or 318 days into his hair-raising experiment.

Speaking exclusively to SunSport, the 29-year-old Spaniard described the trials of his ever-growing mane: "It's been a very tough summer... It's been very hot, especially here in Spain, where I am at the moment, it's absolutely boiling. That's been the biggest difficulty for sure. And then even things like when I shower, having to dry my hair in the heat in the heat and then having to use a hairdryer next to my head is too much. It naturally takes hours to dry... I've been using a headband to try and keep it off my face. I recently tried some curl cream, and that seemed to calm it down a bit, which is great, but obviously it takes time to do those things, whereas this is how it is more naturally."

Frank’s unusual dedication has brought him unexpected fame. With appearances on Sky Sports, BBC, and CBS, and over 200 thousand followers on Instagram, he’s become something of a mini-celebrity. Curl cream brands have reached out, and fans sought autographs during his visits to Old Trafford, including the thrilling Europa League clash with Lyon.

As he jokes, fame should be used “loosely.” "I have had a few companies that have got into contact with things like curl creams and there are a few more talks with other hair brands. I went to the United-Lyon game - seriously the best game I've been to live and I'm not sure it will ever be beaten - and I reckon while I was there I probably took over 200 photos with different people."

His hair now measures 18cm—but that’s still not enough for the grand finale Frank envisions. He’s been raising funds for MindUK, even taking on an ice bucket challenge earlier this summer. Once United finally achieve five wins in a row, he plans to chop his iconic curls at Old Trafford, donating the proceeds to the Little Princess Trust.

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Otherwise, judging by the last time the Red Devils achieved five consecutive wins, Frank won’t be visiting the barber anytime soon. The Manchester club last recorded five victories in a row a year and a half ago—in February 2024.