Big plans

Manchester United wants to build a new Wembley

Old Trafford is in urgent need of refurbishment.(Bild: GEPA pictures)

A model of a possible new stadium for the soccer club Manchester United was presented at the annual party conference of the ruling British Labor Party in Liverpool. The new stadium for the English record champions is expected to cost the equivalent of around 2.4 billion euros. However, it is still unclear whether it will actually be built.

Old Trafford, Man United's venue since 1910, is reportedly in urgent need of renovation. Those responsible at the club, led by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are currently weighing up whether it makes more sense to renovate and expand the traditional "theater of dreams" or to build a new stadium on the site next door at Trafford Park.

Ratcliffe reportedly prefers a new building. The Ineos boss had repeatedly expressed his desire to have a "Wembley of the North" built, i.e. a prestigious venue comparable to Wembley Stadium, which could also be used for international matches, for example. The new model was designed by London architects Foster + Partners, who were also involved in the development of Wembley Stadium.

New arena with 100,000 spectators?
In contrast to the current 74,000 seats at Old Trafford, a new arena would offer space for 100,000 spectators. The project also includes plans for a shopping center, new residential blocks with 17,000 apartments and new train stations in the area.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham made it clear that no taxpayers' money would be used for the stadium. However, an extension or new build would require the relocation of a freight yard located behind Old Trafford to create space, for which taxpayers' money could be used.