Man Utd plan to build ‘iconic’ £2bn 100,000-capacity stadium

Manchester United has unveiled plans to build the UK’s largest stadium—a £2bn, 100,000-seat venue near Old Trafford. Once complete, the current stadium may be demolished. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to create “the world’s greatest football stadium,” with construction expected to finish within five years.

The decision follows a lengthy consultation on whether to upgrade Old Trafford or build a new venue. Old Trafford has been United’s home since 1910, and the team will continue to play there until the new stadium is ready.

Designed by Foster and Partners, the new stadium will feature an umbrella shape, a public plaza twice the size of Trafalgar Square, and three 200-meter “trident” masts visible from 25 miles away.

Although Manchester United is currently £1bn in debt, the club has yet to announce how it will fund the project. CEO Omar Berrada called it “a very attractive investment opportunity” and expressed confidence in securing financing. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire believes the development is financially viable, with income from the multi-functional stadium expected to offset additional interest costs.

via BBC