Back in March, Sir Jim Ratcliffe confirmed Manchester United’s ambition to construct a stadium and move away from Old Trafford, signalling the dawn of a new era for the club.
Recent developments, however, indicate that the project has encountered challenges, with the club now exploring strategies to control escalating costs associated with the £3bn redevelopment plan.
Architect Lord Norman Foster, from Foster and Partners, initially designed the structure to feature three towering masts known as “the trident”, reaching 200 metres and visible from 25 miles away.
According to The Athletic, United have since revised those designs, removing the proposed canopy due to difficulties in securing surrounding land, as Football Insider adds that the focus is now on keeping expenses manageable.
Man United new stadium face £400m land dispute over canopy plans
Man United’s new stadium project has also hit a snag due to a standoff with neighbouring business, Freightliner, who own a key freight terminal in the area.
The position of the terminal means that the club need to knock it down to make room for their new canopy, but Freightliner are asking for around £400 million. This is significantly higher than the £50 million that the club prices it at.
It remains uncertain whether both sides will reach an agreement or if United will proceed without the planned canopy structure.
Man United new stadium plans face potential delay amid rising debt concerns
According to Ratcliffe, Man United aim to complete their new stadium project within five years, ushering in a new chapter for the club.
However, Football Insider reports that the Red Devils may need to pause those plans as their overall debt has now surged past £1bn.
United’s 2024-25 financial accounts showed a turnover increase from £661.8m to £666.5m, but rising liabilities continue to cast uncertainty over their new stadium ambitions.
FGG Says: Ditch the canopy
When the stadium was first announced, the canopy design was largely laughed out of the room by rival supporters due to its resemblance to a circus tent. Now that the club have the chance to scrap the design, while saving themselves £400m, they should jump at it.