Why Man United submitted ‘special request’ to play first 2026-27 Premier League game away from Old Trafford

Manchester United will begin their 2026-27 Premier League campaign away from home after the club made a special request to league officials, allowing extensive renovation work to continue at Old Trafford ahead of the new season.

The Red Devils are scheduled to open their league season with a trip to newly-promoted Hull City on August 22, marking the first time since 2016 that United have started a Premier League campaign away from Old Trafford.

While opening away from home can sometimes be viewed as a disadvantage, the arrangement was specifically requested by Manchester United to provide additional time for major pitch redevelopment and safety improvement works currently taking place at the stadium.

Why did Manchester United ask to start the season away?

The primary reason is the extensive work being carried out on the Old Trafford playing surface. Ground staff have removed the pitch entirely for the first time since 2012, with the renovation representing one of the most significant maintenance projects undertaken at the stadium in more than a decade.

Supporters taking part in stadium tours during the summer have been able to see the scale of the works first-hand, with large sections of the playing area excavated as preparations continue.

The timing of the project means Manchester United require as much time as possible before hosting their first home fixture. By opening the season away at Hull City, the club effectively gains an additional two weeks to complete the work and ensure the pitch is ready for competitive action.

United's first home league match is scheduled to come against Ipswich Town, giving grounds staff approximately ten weeks to complete the project.

What changes are being made at Old Trafford?

The renovation extends beyond simply replacing the grass surface. Manchester United are also using the opportunity to introduce additional safety measures around the perimeter of the pitch, an area that has attracted increased attention in recent seasons.

Old Trafford's playing surface sits approximately three feet above the surrounding walkways, creating a noticeable drop-off at the edge of the field. While this design has been a longstanding feature of the stadium, concerns have been raised about the risk of injury when players leave the field of play at speed.

Those concerns intensified last season when striker Benjamin Sesko aggravated a shin injury after being pushed off the pitch during a match against Liverpool. The incident renewed discussion about whether modifications were needed to improve player safety.

Manchester United confirmed last year that redesigning sections of the pitch perimeter was under consideration, and the current works appear to form part of that wider review.

The club's schedule means one of the first major tests for the renovated surface will come quickly, with rivals Manchester City due to visit Old Trafford in September.

FGG says: A sensible request that benefits everyone

Requesting an opening away fixture is hardly unprecedented, particularly when clubs are undertaking major stadium works. In Manchester United's case, the decision appears entirely logical.

Player safety and pitch quality should always take priority over scheduling convenience, especially when significant structural improvements are being made. The extra preparation time gives the club a better chance of delivering both.

With Old Trafford already under scrutiny because of wider redevelopment plans, ensuring the stadium remains fit for purpose in the short term is just as important as planning for its long-term future.