Manchester United, one of the world's most renowned football clubs, is set to go 'head-to-head' with The Football Association (FA) over their ambitious Old Trafford redevelopment plans. The club aims to transform their new £2 billion stadium into the 'Wembley of the North', a move that could potentially put them on a collision course with the FA.
Earlier this year, Manchester United unveiled plans to build an ultra-modern 100,000-seater stadium as part of a broader redevelopment project in the local area. This new home will not only serve as a base for United's first team but also host major events both within and outside football.
The Red Devils have been playing at Old Trafford since 1910 and are now looking forward to making this new arena their home ground. One significant event they aim to host is none other than the Women's World Cup final in 2035.
Aiming for Women’s World Cup final 2035
In what can be seen as an ambitious move by Manchester United, they are set for crucial discussions with the FA regarding hosting rights of this prestigious event instead of Wembley Stadium. It is expected that England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will jointly host this tournament in ten years' time.
When England hosted the Women's European Championship in 2022 at Wembley Stadium where Lionesses beat Germany 2-1 in finals; it was well-received by fans worldwide. However, if things go according to plan for Manchester United, we might see a shift from London to Manchester for hosting such grand events.
Concerns over Wembley hosting again
Club chiefs are reportedly increasing their lobbying efforts amid concerns that Wembley could once again be chosen as hosts due its history and prestige - it has also been selected to host the 2028 men's Euro final.
Manchester United believes that by 2035, a revamped Old Trafford would be better equipped to host such a significant event than Wembley. They argue that not every final should be played in London, thus promoting diversity and inclusivity in football. United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has expressed his desire for the club's new stadium to serve as the 'Wembley of the North'. He stated, "There's a very good case, in my view, for having a stadium of the North, which would serve the northern part of the country in that arena of football."
Collette Roche, United's Chief Operating Officer also confirmed this ambition after Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham announced region’s ‘Growth Plan’. This project includes building 15,000 homes and redeveloping Old Trafford. Manchester United is set on an ambitious path with their redevelopment plans. If successful it could change how major football events are hosted across England. However this journey won't be without its challenges as they face potential opposition from FA and other stakeholders.
