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Manchester United have confirmed they will continue with their feasibility and engagement work into 2025, with a final decision on the direction of travel regarding a redeveloped or the construction of a brand-new stadium expected in the summer.
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has repeatedly expressed his desire to build a new state-of-the-art arena, with Old Trafford currently in a poor state.
The two possibilities being considered are redeveloping Old Trafford or building a new stadium, with the latter appearing to be the more likely path for United to pursue.
It’s thought that Ratcliffe wants to create a “Wembley of the north” – an endeavour that’s estimated to cost about £2billion.
United have also relayed that the Old Trafford task force – which was created in March to study the feasibility of a new stadium and a wider regeneration of the area – has held its final meeting of the year.
Lord Sebastian Coe, who chairs the task force, wrote on Instagram, “Today, I had the honour of chairing the final meeting of the Old Trafford Regeneration Task Force in 2024.”
“This marked the conclusion of months of feasibility work to explore ways in which the development of a world-class football stadium can catalyse regeneration of the area around Old Trafford, delivering huge social and economic benefits for the local community, and the wider region.”
“This has been a multi-stakeholder process that has collected views from over 50,000 fans, plus residents, community members and businesses.”
“Today we discussed the outcome of this work in the form of an options report with Manchester United, Trafford Borough Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority to help inform their decision-making process.”
“At every stage we have challenged all involved to recognise the opportunity that sport presents as a powerful driver for transformational urban regeneration and that is reflected in the report.”
“Manchester United will now work together with local authorities to review the findings and agree a path forward in the months ahead.”
The Manchester Evening News reports that CEO Omar Berrada and COO Collette Roche attended the meeting, which was held virtually.
Berrada and Roche will report back to United’s ownership in due course.
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