Manchester United are set to announce a major update on their stadium project on Tuesday, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe reaffirming his vision for a new Old Trafford.
Since completing his minority takeover in February 2024, Ratcliffe has been vocal about building a state-of-the-art venue that reflects United’s stature. The club has been weighing two options redeveloping Old Trafford or constructing a new stadium in the same area.
The Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force, chaired by Lord Sebastian Coe, has been leading discussions on the project. Coe is expected to join Ratcliffe at the official update in London.
Speaking to former United captain Gary Neville on The Overlap podcast, Ratcliffe emphasized the need for a stadium that matches the club’s legacy and the Premier League’s global appeal. He noted that while England boasts top-tier stadiums, it lacks an equivalent to Real Madrid’s Bernabeu or Barcelona’s upcoming Nou Camp.
To enhance the matchday experience, proposed stadium features include a fan-friendly entertainment zone, a club-owned hotel, a new academy complex, and improved transport links, including a dedicated train station and a ‘Wembley Way’-style walkway.
Ratcliffe insists that while the project doesn’t require government funding, it should be part of a broader initiative to revitalize the area around Old Trafford. The club has enlisted renowned architect Lord Norman Foster to develop a master plan for the transformation.
Neville, who is part of the task force, has seen preliminary designs and described them as ‘absolutely spectacular.’ Ratcliffe believes that within five to six years, United could boast a world-class stadium worthy of the club’s history and global status.