Manchester United is preparing updated plans for the New Trafford Stadium. The club has backed away from the controversial giant canopy, once touted as the signature feature of the venue unveiled in March by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and architect Sir Norman Foster.

£400 million canopy plan shelved

The spring concept of New Trafford Stadium envisioned a 100,000-seat stadium with its own roof and a massive canopy covering fan zones. Supported by three masts, the structure was meant to protect fans from rain and extend their stay in hospitality areas, while creating a futuristic silhouette visible even from the outskirts of Liverpool. The three rods symbolized the trident from United’s crest.

However, the canopy alone was estimated to cost £300–£400 million. Critics likened it to a circus tent and argued it clashed with Manchester’s industrial heritage, while supporters praised its bold, recognizable shape.

In March we commissioned Norman Foster to design the most iconic football stadium in the world, Ratcliffe said. We want anyone who sees it to know immediately it’s Manchester United – something more than a stadium, a landmark drawing people from all over the world like the Eiffel Tower.

Updated plans are reportedly more traditional in appearance, though Foster’s vision remains on the table. The club has launched a tender for architects; Foster + Partners are seen as frontrunners but have no formal contract yet.

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Land and cost challenges

The main reason for the U-turn is land. Most of the area west of the current stadium earmarked for the new Old Trafford – and around 17,000 homes – belongs to Freightliner. According to The Guardian, the company wants about £400 million for the land, far above United’s £50 million valuation. Freightliner says it is willing to relocate its freight terminal but is sticking to its price.

Dropping the giant canopy would reduce the amount of Freightliner land required, allowing construction to begin sooner. Various stadium location options are also being studied in parallel.

© Foster + Partners

Financing and government support

The overall project was initially estimated at £2 billion, but financing is not yet confirmed. United plan to fund the stadium privately but are seeking government help with infrastructure – including moving the freight terminal and building new roads. In March the club began lobbying for public assistance, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves expressing support.

Mayor Andy Burnham noted in August that talks with Freightliner remain far from resolved, though a city development company with compulsory purchase powers has been created. Meanwhile shipping giant CMA CGM has announced it will take over Freightliner’s UK operations, adding uncertainty to the negotiations.

There is still no construction start date. Originally work was expected to begin this year. A new Trafford – without the signature canopy – could be built faster and cheaper, but the path to realization remains long.

© Foster + Partners