Man united megafan makes incredible journey from Mongolia to Old Trafford… by bike!

Ochiroo, a Mongolian Manchester United-loving footballer set out to cycle from his home in a yurt in Mongolia to Old Trafford to watch his beloved team play for the first time.

The journey will be a whopping 9,243 km from the suburbs of Ulaanbaatar to Old Trafford.

From Mongolia to Manchester by bike

He’s hoping to arrive in Manchester in December in time for a game at the Theatre of Dreams.

Paul Watson, who introduced us to Ochiroo used to live in Mongolia where in 2016, he managed a football team.

Paul said: “I first met Ochiroo in 2016 when I ran a football team in Mongolia. We were looking for players and we were introduced to him.

“He was training on his own in his school gym at 6 am in -15 degrees, wearing, of course, a Man United shirt.

“After a year with our club, Ochiroo was scammed by a fake agent who offered a trial with LA Galaxy if he could transfer insurance money.

“He lost £3k and his family risked losing everything. Luckily, after going on @tSHandJ, kind fans around the UK donated to get his money back.

“Ochiroo was shaken but returned to playing football and won the Mongolian title with Ulanbaataar City, but his dream remains to visit Old Trafford.

“So he’s set out to cycle 9,000km from his home in Ulan Bator, estimating to arrive in Manchester in December!”

We caught up with Ochiroo on his epic cycling journey to the UK.

Ochiroo is from Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, where he lives with his parents in the suburbs of the city.

How did you get into football?

“I started playing football when I was just 15 years old. Football always gave me happiness and freedom, It was my first love.

“My most memorable moment was when I was picked for my first football club, which was called Bayangol FC. We’ve had a great ride together and I love playing for them.”

How did you end up supporting Manchester United?

“Well, I have supported Manchester United since I was ten years old. Every time I watched TV and the football, it was always United on so I thought they were great.

“My Uncle was also a huge United fan, so we used to watch together. My favourite player from that era was Wayne Rooney, he was so strong and had so much skill. I loved his game and style.”

Why did you decide to make the journey by bike?

“I just love football, it’s such a beautiful sport. The players are magical. I have met some amazing people through football, and many of them I’m lucky enough to call my friends.

“They all know it’s my dream to play professionally, and they have always supported me and for that, I’m incredibly grateful. It’s an honour for me to play, and to see United live will be amazing. It’s a dream come true for me to see them play.

“I love adventures, and this seemed like a great one to be part of. Hopefully, my journey will inspire others to live without regret and chase their dreams.

“This is my only chance to make my dream come true and see Manchester United, so hopefully I’ll make it.”

Can you tell us about your journey so far?

“I set out on May 5th, so I’ve been going for a bit longer than a month now.

“My trip has been going very well so far! There have been many difficult days through cold snow and rain, but now that’s been turned on its head as the days are very, very hot.

“As of today, I’ve travelled 2,600km, so just the 10,000km left, haha.

“I’ve met so many brilliant people who have helped me along the way, it’s been really eye-opening. Some people can be so kind.

“I am currently in Xinjiang in China.

Which Countries will you travel through?

“So next up after China is Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Turkey, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, France and England. We’ve got a long way to go yet!”

What do you know about the city of Manchester?

“I don’t know too much about the city, but I’ve heard the people are very welcoming and I can’t wait to see Old Trafford. It almost feels like I’m coming home. I am set to land in Manchester in December and I’m currently feeling great.”

From everyone at I Love Manchester Ochiroo, good luck and we hope to see you in December!