Old Trafford vs. Elland Road: Ex-Man United, Leeds attacker picks clear winner in stadium battle (exclusive)

Lee Sharpe has delivered his verdict in the long-running debate between Old Trafford and Elland Road, admitting that while he has fond memories of both grounds, Manchester United's famous home edges out its Yorkshire counterpart.

The former winger enjoyed spells with both Manchester United and Leeds United during his playing career, giving him a unique perspective on two of English football's most iconic stadiums.

His comments come at a time when both venues are undergoing major transformations, with Manchester United pushing ahead with plans for a new 100,000-seat stadium as part of the wider Old Trafford regeneration project, while Leeds United have begun work on the redevelopment and expansion of Elland Road to increase capacity and modernise facilities.

Asked which stadium he would choose if forced to pick between the two, Sharpe did not hesitate.

“It would have to be Old Trafford,” he said in an exclusive interview with FootballGroundGuide.

“The size, the noise, the history, and the success we had there, I'd have to pick Old Trafford, as much as I loved Elland Road.”

Why Old Trafford gets Sharpe's vote

Old Trafford remains one of the most famous stadiums in world football and has been Manchester United's home since 1910.

Sharpe was part of one of the club's most successful eras under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning multiple league titles, domestic cups and European honours during his time at the club.

That history ultimately proved decisive in his assessment. The former winger highlighted not only the scale of the stadium but also the memories associated with playing there during one of the most dominant periods in Manchester United's history.

While the club is preparing for a new chapter with its proposed stadium project, Old Trafford continues to hold a special place in the hearts of former players and supporters alike.

Elland Road still earns special praise

Although Sharpe selected Old Trafford as his winner, he was quick to praise Elland Road and the atmosphere generated by Leeds supporters.

“I loved Elland Road as an away player, because of the hostility and how passionate the Leeds fans were,” he explained.

“I loved it as a player too because the fans help the team so much by getting behind the players, the noise there is incredible as well.

“But just because of the success and the history behind Old Trafford, and everything we won there, I have to say Old Trafford.”

Elland Road has long been regarded as one of England's most intimidating grounds for visiting teams, with its compact design helping to create a fierce atmosphere on matchdays.

The stadium is now entering a new era as Leeds continue work on an expansion project that will increase capacity and improve facilities while retaining the ground's traditional character.

FGG Says: Two iconic grounds with different strengths

Sharpe's answer reflects what many football supporters would probably expect. Old Trafford has the advantage of scale, silverware and global recognition, while Elland Road's reputation is built on atmosphere, passion and a unique connection between the team and supporters.

The interesting aspect is that both clubs are currently investing heavily in their futures. Manchester United are planning one of the most ambitious stadium projects ever seen in British football, while Leeds are modernising Elland Road to match their Premier League ambitions.

Lee Sharpe was speaking to FGG on behalf of NetBet Sports Betting