Manchester United has announced plans to build a new 100,000-seat stadium, marking a shift away from the previously considered renovation of Old Trafford. The new venue will be constructed in close proximity to the current stadium.

United’s new stadium with trident

During the official presentation, the first renderings of the stadium were revealed. Its design is inspired by the legendary trident of the Red Devils, which will be reflected in the unique shape of the roof. Three towering masts, each 200 meters high, will be visible from 40 kilometers away. The stadium will be surrounded by a vast public square, twice the size of Trafalgar Square.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United’s minority owner, emphasized that this project is a response to the needs of both the club and the local community. Today marks the start of an incredibly exciting journey to the delivery of what will be the world’s greatest football stadium, at the centre of a regenerated Old Trafford Ratcliffe stated.

According to Lord Foster, CEO of Foster + Partners, the firm responsible for designing the stadium, the project will be one of the most exciting developments in the world today. The stadium’s exterior will be open and covered by an umbrella-like structure that will harvest solar energy, collect rainwater, and provide shade, aligning with sustainability principles.

The project is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. Manchester United estimates that the stadium’s construction and related regeneration efforts will contribute an additional £7.3 billion to the local economy, create 92,000 jobs, and enable the development of 17,000 new homes. The club also projects that the new complex will attract around 1.8 million additional visitors per year.

© Foster + Partners | Manchester United’s new stadium would be the largest in England

Financing project

The estimated cost of the new stadium is over £2 billion, and securing financing remains a key consideration. Club CEO Omar Berrada acknowledged that Manchester United may consider selling the stadium’s naming rights to cover a significant portion of the investment costs. Experts suggest that a naming rights deal could generate between £15 million and £30 million per year for the club.

As a PLC we can’t speculate too much about the funding, Berrada said during a press briefing in London. What I will say is as a centrepiece it is a very attractive investment opportunity. We are very confident we will find a way to finance the stadium.

What do fans think?

The Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) issued a statement highlighting mixed reactions among fans. Many believe the investment could positively impact the club’s future, but concerns remain about rising ticket prices and potential financial consequences.

The announcement of plans to build a brand new stadium adjacent to Old Trafford is clearly very big news for United fans. Everyone wants the biggest and the best for our club and the visuals look both stunning and exciting. But against the backdrop of uncertainty around next year’s ticket prices, continuing poor performance on the field, speculation around sales of key young players, and the recent financial results, the news probably does beg more questions than it gives clear answers a MUST spokesperson commented.

© Foster + Partners | Many fans think the Red Devils’ future stadium resembles a circus tent in appearance

The end of Old Trafford?

Is this decision final? According to the BBC, Old Trafford, which has been Manchester United’s home since 1910, will be demolished once the new stadium is completed. Sources close to the club suggest that using the old stadium for the women’s team and youth squads would not be financially viable. United will continue playing at Old Trafford until the new stadium is ready.

Our current stadium has served us brilliantly for the past 115 years, but it has fallen behind the best arenas in world sport. By building next to the existing site, we will be able to preserve the essence of Old Trafford, while creating a truly state-of-the-art stadium that transforms the fan experience, only footsteps from our historic home Ratcliffe said.

How long will construction take?

Regardless of on-field performances, the new stadium project will be a key element of the club’s strategy for the coming years. Manchester United plans to complete construction within five years, using prefabrication methods to reduce build time. Additionally, the club will take advantage of Manchester’s ideal location, with parts of the stadium transported via the Manchester Ship Canal.

© Foster + Partners  | The ambitious plan envisions building the stadium in five years