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MANCHESTER UNITED is presently exploring two paths for expanding their stadium, with a definitive decision expected by next year.
The Red Devils are considering a proposal to build a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000, alongside another plan to raise Old Trafford’s current capacity from 74,310 to 87,000.
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Credit: Getty – Contributor
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Both proposed stadiums share the same location but present unique architectural designs.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s preferred strategy proposes a 100,000-seat stadium built on current land occupied by a rail freight company.
On the other hand, the architectural firm Foster & Partners has suggested a design for a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000 at the rear of the Stretford End.
This second option may require a temporary closure of the Stretford End during the construction phase, causing inconvenience to some supporters, although club officials are actively seeking ways to address this issue.
Additionally, Sir Jim and club executives are considering an alternative plan that would involve the expansion and refurbishment of Old Trafford.
This plan would primarily focus on redeveloping the Sir Bobby Charlton stand, known as the South stand, and might include phased expansions of the stands and a new roofing system.
This method could also result in some fans being unable to attend matches while construction is in progress.
SunSport has reached out to Manchester United for further comments.
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Insights on the ‘new’ Old Trafford
MANCHESTER UNITED is prioritizing the development of a new stadium over the renovation of Old Trafford.
This choice follows multiple investigative visits to various stadiums, including the Bernabeu and Nou Camp.
The estimated cost of the new stadium is approximately £2 billion.
With a target capacity of 100,000, the club asserts that it’s crucial for a team of United’s stature to possess a modern, top-tier facility.
The new venue will be located on land adjacent to the current stadium.
The club also intends to revitalize the Trafford area surrounding the new stadium.
At first, there were thoughts of maintaining Old Trafford and converting it into a smaller secondary venue.
However, it now seems that full demolition of the old stadium is becoming a more likely scenario.
The club consulted with 30,000 fans regarding its future, revealing nearly an even divide in preference for staying or relocating.
Foster + Partners, known for their design of Wembley Stadium, has been engaged to develop a comprehensive “masterplan”.
Old Trafford has been the club’s home since 1910.
The anticipated completion date for the new facility is projected for 2030.
The club is confident enough in the demand for season tickets to fill a 100,000-seat stadium.
Officials report that there are 177,000 fans currently on the waiting list for season tickets.
A fan assembles an Old Trafford seat just moments before kick-off between Man Utd and Fulham
Each season, the club has consistently sold 50,000 season tickets.
All three proposed options would benefit from a new train station being constructed near the stadium, enhancing accessibility for supporters.
Once a decision is made, an extensive design consultation is likely to take place, potentially lasting up to two years before construction starts.
This timeline suggests that actual construction might not commence before the conclusion of the 2027/28 season, with the new stadium not expected to be completed until 2032.
The overall project may require around £2 billion, and finding the necessary funding could be challenging, given Ratcliffe’s net worth was previously estimated at £12 billion prior to his acquisition of the club.
Nonetheless, increased capacity and enhanced hospitality options are anticipated to significantly elevate matchday revenue, with estimates indicating a rise from £136 million to £200 million annually.
Moreover, new retail and dining establishments will likely be required to pay rent to the club, generating a consistent revenue stream even during off-season periods.
In March, Ratcliffe expressed aspirations to develop a “Wembley of the North”.
During his appearance on the Geraint Thomas Cycling Club podcast, he stated: “This is a unique opportunity to construct an entirely new ground since we possess ample space available.
“An entirely new stadium would undoubtedly be state-of-the-art and world-class, potentially accommodating 90,000 or even 100,000 visitors. Such a facility would host major events in northern England.”
“Why are all significant matches held in the south? Why is the FA Cup final continually hosted in the south? Shouldn’t the Champions League final occasionally occur north as well?
“Football in the north is just as essential as in the south, maybe even more so, and the people of the north contribute to tax revenues. So, why are our premier venues like Wembley, Twickenham, and Wimbledon all situated in the south?”
“What does the north have as its equivalent? There’s a strong case for creating a ‘Wembley of the North’.”
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