Manchester United’s crucial decision on the future of Old Trafford has been pushed back until summer 2025, as INEOS explores funding options and awaits budget implications.
The club faces a pivotal choice between demolishing their historic home to build a new £2 billion ‘Wembley of the North’ or undertaking extensive renovations of the existing structure.
The verdict, which will shape the future of one of football’s most iconic venues, was initially expected sooner but will now follow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s budget announcement in March.
The proposed new stadium would be a 100,000-seater venue, significantly expanding the current capacity of Old Trafford.
If the club opts for the new build option, they would need to acquire additional land currently occupied by a rail freight terminal.
The alternative proposal involves a comprehensive redevelopment of the existing Old Trafford structure, which has fallen into a state of disrepair.
Manchester United have delayed their decision on what to do with Old Trafford
Reuters/PA
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group is considering both options carefully, with any feasibility studies needing to account for serious improvements across multiple areas.
A recent survey of 500,000 Manchester United supporters revealed a split in opinion, with 52% favouring a new stadium whilst 31% preferred redevelopment of Old Trafford.
The remaining 17% were undecided on the best path forward for the historic ground.
The survey highlighted a notable generational divide, with younger supporters showing preference for staying at the current location.
Older fans, conversely, were more inclined to support the construction of a new stadium, demonstrating how the decision has divided different generations of the United faithful.
Manchester United are currently conducting consultations with supporters to gather further opinions and provide additional information about the proposals.
Former United defender Gary Neville is playing a key role as part of a stadium ‘taskforce’ alongside Mayor Andy Burnham.
The taskforce has been charged with exploring regeneration options and is due to deliver its report by the end of this year.
INEOS’s final decision will take into account the implications of Burnham’s March budget, as the ownership group seeks to understand all financial ramifications before committing to either option.
The current state of Old Trafford has become a significant embarrassment for a club of Manchester United’s stature, with facilities described as second-class.
INEOS’s commitment to excellence suggests any decision must align with their aspirations for United to be best in class.
Fans are split on what to do with Old Trafford
The ownership group appears willing to support either option, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe reportedly sympathetic to supporters’ concerns about current facilities.
The final verdict will need to ensure the stadium matches the club’s ambitions, whether through comprehensive renovation or the creation of an entirely new home.