SOCCER: Manchester United secure land for new 100,000-seater stadium

Manchester United has secured most of the land required for its planned 100,000-seat stadium, marking a significant step toward the construction of what would become the largest football stadium in Britain.

The Premier League club announced on Monday that it had acquired a 25-acre site located about 350 meters northwest of Old Trafford from industrial property provider Indurent and a company within Blackstone’s portfolio. The land acquisition supports United’s plans to build a new stadium next to its historic home ground.

Manchester United unveiled plans last year for the £2 billion ($2.65 billion) project, which is expected to replace Old Trafford as the club’s primary venue.

Collette Roche, chief executive of United’s new stadium development project, said building close to Old Trafford would help preserve the traditions and matchday experience valued by supporters.

“We are committed to building a world-class stadium with our supporters, not just for them, with atmosphere, affordability, and accessibility at the heart of our thinking,” Roche said.

Old Trafford has been Manchester United’s home since 1910. While the stadium currently holds more than 74,000 spectators, it has faced growing criticism in recent years over aging infrastructure, including a leaking roof, drainage issues, and reports of rodent infestations.

Minority owner Jim Ratcliffe, who holds approximately a 29% stake in the club and oversees football operations, has favored constructing a new stadium rather than renovating Old Trafford.

Chief Executive Omar Berrada previously acknowledged that investment in the new venue could affect the club’s spending on player acquisitions and overall competitiveness for several years.

Despite those concerns, Manchester United enjoyed a strong campaign under manager Michael Carrick, finishing third in the Premier League and securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in two seasons. -Reporting by Rishabh Jaiswal in Bengaluru; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan/Reuters