MANCHESTER UNITED plans to preserve a part of the historic Old Trafford even as they move forward with constructing a new stadium.
The club aims to develop a £2 billion, 100,000-seat stadium on land adjacent to the current Old Trafford, with a target completion date set for 2030. Rather than fully demolishing the existing ground, United intends to downsize it to a 30,000-capacity venue for use by the women’s team and academy.
This strategy would allow iconic elements such as the statues, the Munich clock, and the memorial plaque to remain, preserving the rich heritage and emotional significance for fans who have cherished Old Trafford since 1910.
While the sentimental value of Old Trafford is recognized, the club believes a modern, state-of-the-art facility is essential for its future. The new stadium will be part of a larger redevelopment plan for the Trafford area.
Currently, Manchester United is seeking funding for this ambitious project and is considering potential sponsorship opportunities, which might result in a name like Old Trafford@Snapdragon.
However, the project’s future may be uncertain due to the recent £20 billion shortfall in the national budget. With Chancellor Rachel Reeves implementing a significant cost-cutting strategy and expected tax hikes, securing government support for the stadium might be challenging.
If government funding does not materialize, Manchester United may need to reassess their plans and consider scaling back their ambitious project.